Queensland officials have launched a comprehensive search for visionary architects to design two major Olympic venues - the new Brisbane Stadium and National Aquatic Centre - which will serve as the centerpieces of the state government's massive $7.1 billion infrastructure plan for the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games. The Games Independent Infrastructure and Coordination Authority (GIICA) has positioned these two facilities as the crown jewels within the Victoria Park precinct development.
The 60,000-seat Brisbane Stadium is designed to be the main Olympic venue during the games, hosting the opening and closing ceremonies as well as track and field events. Following the conclusion of the Olympics, the stadium will be expanded to serve as the city's premier sporting facility with a total capacity of 63,000 seats, ensuring a lasting legacy for Brisbane's sports infrastructure.
Located to the east of the proposed Brisbane Stadium, the National Aquatic Centre will be constructed on the site of the heritage-listed Brisbane Centenary Pool. The aquatic facility has been designed with flexibility in mind, featuring a permanent capacity of 8,000 seats that can be expanded to accommodate 25,000 spectators during games mode, allowing it to handle the massive crowds expected during Olympic competition.
GIICA is spearheading the development of these two flagship projects as part of a broader initiative that includes 15 other new and upgraded games venues throughout the region. The authority has specifically stated it is seeking architects with proven experience in delivering iconic projects, emphasizing the need for professionals who can bring bold ideas and cutting-edge innovation to create future Brisbane landmarks that will define the city's skyline for generations.
Simon Crooks, CEO of GIICA, expressed his anticipation that the Expression of Interest (EOI) process will attract submissions from some of the world's most renowned architectural firms from Queensland, across Australia, and internationally. "Designing an Olympic and Paralympic Stadium, which then becomes a city's major events centerpiece, is a rare opportunity and a project that architects everywhere dream of being part of," Crooks stated.
Crooks emphasized the global significance of the project, noting, "This is a truly international moment, and we must cast our net wide to get the best design complemented by cutting-edge innovation in sustainability, accessibility and athlete and visitor experience." He revealed that GIICA has already been overwhelmed with interest from architects for both the Brisbane Stadium and the National Aquatic Centre, and this formal EOI process will allow all those with bold ideas to come forward for official consideration.
The current architect search follows previous procurement activities conducted earlier this year. In July, GIICA released separate EOIs seeking a principal contractor for the Victoria Park precinct masterplan and appointing a lead designer for four regional venues, demonstrating the comprehensive scope of the Olympic infrastructure development.
However, the project faces some challenges. Last month, a First Nations group initiated federal legal action seeking protection of Victoria Park/Barrambin, which they describe as one of the city's most important First Nations cultural sites, against major Olympic stadium development. Despite this legal challenge, GIICA continues to move forward with plans to locate the stadium within the Victoria Park precinct.
Crooks highlighted the lasting impact these venues will have, stating, "The stadium that hosts the opening and closing ceremonies is often one of the longest lasting memories for audiences and athletes at the games, so getting a visionary design is key to the entire experience." This perspective underscores the importance of selecting architects who can create not just functional sports facilities, but memorable architectural landmarks.
The selected principal architects will work in partnership with GIICA during the early contractor involvement (ECI) process for both venues, ensuring close collaboration throughout the design and development phases. The EOI submission period is deliberately brief, remaining open for just two weeks and closing on Wednesday, September 24, 2025, at 5:00 PM, reflecting the urgency of the Olympic timeline and the need to move quickly on these critical infrastructure projects.
