The ‘Gabba’ to Undergo Major Transformation for Brisbane 2032 Olympics

The iconic Brisbane Cricket Ground, is slated for demolition in 2025, paving the way for an ambitious $2.7 billion redevelopment project that positions it as the centrepiece for the Brisbane 2032 Olympics. Queensland’s Deputy Premier, Steven Miles, revealed the state’s visionary plan for the precinct, potentially to be rebranded as East Bank, following the acceptance of a project validation report for the stadium.

Scheduled to commence after the Ashes Test in 2025, marking 130 years since the venue’s establishment, the redevelopment includes the construction of three new pedestrian bridges over adjacent roads. This initiative is part of Queensland’s most significant urban renewal project since Expo 1988, featuring retail spaces, dining options, housing, and expansive open spaces.

The renovated Gabba is set to accommodate 50,000 spectators for sporting events, an increase from its current capacity of 42,000. Impressively, the government envisions its potential to host up to 80,000 attendees for concerts and events, eliminating the likelihood of major artists like Taylor Swift bypassing the city during Australian tours.

With a construction timeline of four years, the rejuvenated Gabba is anticipated to host events by 2030. The stadium will be intricately connected to a concourse and a nearby Cross River Rail station, operational prior to the redevelopment, enhancing accessibility for attendees.

Steven Miles emphasized that the decision for a demolition and rebuild was deemed the optimal outcome, offering the best value for the city. He stated, “That project validation report assessed four possible options for the Gabba and identified that a demolition and rebuild provided the best possible outcome, the best value outcome for the city.”

“It will be a well-connected stadium but, most importantly, it will trigger the urban renewal that we want to see … it will be one of the best parts of the city to live in.”

As part of community engagement, Miles expressed the intention to seek input on potentially naming the new Gabba precinct East Bank, welcoming alternative suggestions from the public. Coordination with cricket administrators and the AFL’s Brisbane Lions is underway to determine alternative venues during the rebuild, with considerations for compensation for potential lost ticket sales.

Construction is set to commence in 2026, with a high likelihood—90%, according to Miles—of being delivered within budget, marking a transformative chapter in Brisbane’s sports and entertainment landscape.