Independent Review Probes Legacy Benefits From GC2018 Ahead of Brisbane 2032

An independent review conducted by Ernst and Young (EY) has revealed that the legacy benefits from the Gold Coast 2018 Commonwealth Games (GC2018) have significantly met or exceeded expectations. This positive outcome provides valuable insights and sets a promising precedent for the upcoming Brisbane 2032 Olympics and Paralympics.

The GC2018 Legacy: Beyond the Games report 2024 evaluated the first five years post-Games, focusing on three core themes: economy, lifestyle, and community. The report found that Queensland’s economy benefitted from enhanced opportunities, with businesses improving internal processes and benefiting from legislative changes. The Games led to a healthier, more active community, utilising new and upgraded sporting infrastructure. Additionally, the Games celebrated diversity and promoted community pride, with a significant increase in volunteering and community service.

The infrastructure improvements have continued to provide social benefits, with a notable increase in the use of major sporting venues on the Gold Coast. In the first 12 months alone, there were an additional 5,584 hours booked across all venues. Moreover, the spirit of volunteering surged post-Games, with higher participation in events such as the Gold Coast Marathon.

The report also includes an analysis of lessons learned and potential considerations for the Brisbane 2032 Olympics and Paralympics, particularly regarding key performance indicators and elements of success. The Queensland Government is proactively addressing these recommendations through the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games Legacy Strategy and Elevate 2042.

Premier Steven Miles highlighted the impact of the 2018 Commonwealth Games: “The 2018 Gold Coast Commonwealth Games was the largest international sporting event in Australia for a decade. It united our community and spotlighted Queensland on the global stage. As we prepare for the Paris Olympics and Paralympics and look towards 2032, we recognise the immense opportunity that comes with hosting such international events.”

Minister for Sport Michael Healy emphasised the ongoing benefits: “The report clearly shows that the Gold Coast Games 2018 were a major sporting and economic success, with legacy benefits extending well beyond the closing ceremony. The health and wellbeing of our community remain a top priority, and it’s particularly pleasing to see Gold Coast residents motivated to utilise the sporting and recreational infrastructure that the Games delivered.”

Minister for State Development and Infrastructure Grace Grace welcomed the report’s findings: “We celebrate the GC2018 Legacy: Beyond the Games report, which showcases the lasting benefits of hosting a major international sporting event. The 2018 Commonwealth Games demonstrated South East Queensland’s readiness to host the world’s biggest sporting event, and we are now focused on leveraging these insights for Brisbane 2032 through our legacy strategy and Elevate 2042.”

As Brisbane gears up for the 2032 Olympics and Paralympics, the GC2018 Legacy report serves as a valuable blueprint for maximising the long-term benefits of major sporting events. With strategic planning and community engagement, Brisbane is poised to build on this legacy, ensuring enduring positive impacts for the city and its residents.