The Sunshine Coast has unveiled a roadmap for its Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games legacy, with improved transport, major infrastructure projects and new opportunities for local businesses among the key priorities.
Sunshine Coast Council launched its Sunshine Coast Legacy Action Plan 2026–2031 today (July 24), outlining 40 actions aimed at using the region’s role as a Games Co-Host City to accelerate investment, deliver community projects and create long-term benefits for residents.
The plan identifies major infrastructure projects, including the Sunshine Coast Stadium upgrade, Sunshine Coast Arena, The Wave rail project, Sunshine Coast Mountain Bike Centre and Athletes’ Village, as critical pieces of the region’s future.
Sunshine Coast Mayor Rosanna Natoli said the Games provided a unique opportunity to deliver projects residents had been advocating for over many years.
“Co-hosting the Games was never just about sport. It’s about the once-in-a-lifetime opportunities and the positives for our community, long after the closing ceremonies in 2032,” she said.
“This plan brings forward the things our residents have been asking us for – better transport, community facilities and stronger support for grassroots sport, plus more opportunities for local business, our artists and our young people.”
The action plan includes measures to support local suppliers, strengthen procurement networks, expand tourism opportunities and connect local and First Nations businesses with future projects and events.
Mayor Natoli said businesses needed to prepare to take advantage of opportunities created by the Games pipeline.
“We want our local businesses and local workers sharing in the benefits that come with co-hosting the Games,” she said.
“Opportunities linked to The Wave and other Games infrastructure projects are already flowing to Sunshine Coast businesses.
“Now is the time to get ready, build capability and strengthen networks.”
Sunshine Coast Council 2032 Legacy Group chair and Paralympian Dr Bridie Kean said the plan had been shaped through consultation with representatives from First Nations communities, sport, tourism, youth, education, disability and business sectors.
“We have worked collectively over several years to shape a Legacy Action Plan that reflects what our region wants and what will create lasting benefits for everyone,” Dr Kean said.
The plan builds on Council’s 2023 10+10+ Vision and outlines projects and programs designed to deliver benefits before, during and after the 2032 Games.
Key actions include improved links to Games venues through projects such as the Beerburrum to Nambour Rail Upgrade and Mooloolah River Interchange, more accessible venues and events, increased opportunities for community volunteering, new visitor experiences and support for the delivery of The Wave and Sunshine Coast Stadium upgrade.
Council said the plan was designed to ensure the infrastructure and opportunities created by the Games continued to benefit residents long after the final events in 2032.
View the full Legacy Action Plan, including an Easy Read version, and list of actions: www.sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au/2032-games-legacy
(Picture: Rylee Smith and Rylan Wooster)
