Gold Coast Mayor Tom Tate today outlined the City's formal submission to the 2032 Olympics and Paralympics review.
"Without community goodwill, these games will never be a success. Rebuilding goodwill starts with this submission," he said.
"Success will be measured by building an engaged and responsive community. If we fail to deliver in that regard, no gold medals or world records will be enough to convince Australians that their investment in the Games was a sound decision."
The City submission will be lodged with the Games Independent Infrastructure and Coordination Authority (GIICA) today.
The basis of the Gold Coast submission is:
- Better Connectivity – accelerate critical transport and digital infrastructure for a growing region;
- Job Creation and Economic Development – deliver a cost-effective Games that boosts jobs and economic growth; and
- Global Identity – position the region as a global destination for tourism, trade and investment.
"Out of respect to the review authority, I cannot outline specific detail however, it is imperative we build infrastructure that leaves a lasting legacy for all Queenslanders," he said.
"Temporary venues, other than for things like road races and triathlons, should only be contemplated when a permanent venue has a significant establishment cost and no meaningful long-term benefit to our community.
"If we can create or improve critical community infrastructure we should use this opportunity."
"We should also look to Paris organisers who understood that when temporary venues were necessary – like their beach volleyball stadium at the foot of the Eiffel Tower – their value was in promoting iconic landmarks on the world stage."
"Getting the mix right is crucial."
The submission follows the Gold Coast's February 2024 bid, lodged with the former State Government.
The February 2024 submission identified significant savings opportunities – with better legacy outcomes – by reducing venue, village and transport infrastructure spend.
"Our latest submission strongly backs the International Olympic Committee (IOC) new norm plan and Olympic Agenda 2020+5," Mayor Tate said.
"That plan is about delivering the Games 'differently' to ensure efficiency and sustainability as well as long-term legacy benefits for its hosts.
"New norm initiatives should include venue optimisation, alternative transport options, and reuse of field of play and back of house operations. This requires 'outside the box' thinking that is both bold and achievable. Paris 2024 showed the world that the event can be delivered differently.
"We must continue to challenge the norms and the Gold Coast has a proven track record in this regard."
The public can make a submission before the January 10 deadline at www.gamesreview.com.au
