Queensland Establishes Independent Authority to Oversee 2032 Brisbane Olympics

The Queensland government has taken a significant step in preparing for the 2032 Brisbane Olympic Games by establishing the Games Venue and Legacy Delivery Authority. This independent body will oversee the delivery of the Games, with a strong focus on practical decision-making and cost control, following the successful model of the 1984 Los Angeles Olympics.

Former Sunshine Coast Council CEO Emma Thomas has been appointed interim head of the authority, effective July 1. Thomas brings a wealth of experience from her previous roles, including senior positions at Boeing and various state governments. Her appointment follows the recent passage of enabling legislation in parliament, which also allows for the appointment of seven independent directors to the authority.

Why this matters: The establishment of an independent authority to oversee the 2032 Brisbane Olympic Games has significant implications for the success and cost-effectiveness of the event. Effective management of the Games can boost the local economy, enhance the city's reputation, and set a positive precedent for future Olympic hosts.

Thomas acknowledged the substantial work ahead, stating, "We've got a lot of work to do," and emphasized the importance of gaining momentum behind the delivery of the already announced venues. She also highlighted the necessity of collaborating closely with the Games delivery partners to ensure a successful outcome.

The establishment of the authority comes at a time when cities are increasingly hesitant to bid for the Olympic Games because of concerns about cost overruns and viability. The recent cancellation of the Victorian government's bid to host the 2026 Commonwealth Games, citing a final price tag nearly three times the initial estimate, has further heightened these concerns.

Premier Steven Miles expressed confidence in the new authority, stating, *"One of the first things I announced I would do as Premier was to create an independent delivery authority for the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games... Emma has a range of relevant experience... and of course, in her role as CEO of Sunshine Coast Council - one of the Games Delivery Partners – where I’ve seen firsthand the excellent work she has done. "*

The Games Venue and Legacy Delivery Authority will be responsible for delivering new and upgraded venues for the 2032 Brisbane Olympics, ensuring that these facilities provide lasting benefits to the wider community. The authority's approach, modeled after the 1984 Los Angeles Olympics, aims to keep costs under control by focusing on practical decision-making and leveraging existing infrastructure.

Minister for State Development and Infrastructure Grace Grace also praised Thomas's appointment, noting, *"It’s clear that the Miles Government is getting on with the job when it comes to the 2032 Games... We’ve established the independent delivery authority, just like we said we would. And today we’ve appointed Emma Thomas, who brings a range of impressive experience to this important role, our interim CEO. "*

The 2032 Brisbane Olympic Games represent a major event for the city and the state of Queensland, with the government committed to delivering a successful and cost-effective Games. The establishment of the Games Venue and Legacy Delivery Authority marks a critical step in achieving this goal, ensuring that the Games are delivered efficiently and effectively while providing lasting benefits to the community.

Key Takeaways

• Queensland government establishes Games Venue and Legacy Delivery Authority for 2032 Brisbane Olympics.
• Emma Thomas appointed interim head of authority, effective July 1, with experience from Boeing and state governments.
• Authority to oversee Games delivery, focusing on practical decision-making and cost control, following 1984 LA Olympics model.
• Authority responsible for delivering new and upgraded venues, ensuring lasting community benefits.
• Government aims to deliver successful and cost-effective Games, with authority marking a critical step towards this goal.