UPDATE: The 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games are officially open for business! Organizers have just launched the first wave of procurement contracts, totaling over $2.5 billion, aimed at engaging local businesses. This announcement comes as the countdown to the Games accelerates, with Brisbane poised to become the hub of Olympic activities.
Earlier today, Olympic chief Andrew Liveris unveiled more than 50 opportunities for small and medium-sized businesses during a media event in Brisbane. Queensland’s Games Minister, Tim Mander, emphasized the importance of local participation, stating, “Now we want our small and medium-sized businesses to also experience that buzz.” The urgency to secure these contracts cannot be overstated; businesses are encouraged to submit proposals immediately to capitalize on this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.
However, the excitement surrounding the Games is not without controversy. Just outside the event, activists from Save Victoria Park protested against the planned demolition of the park to make way for the Olympic infrastructure. Their concerns were amplified by a recent report predicting that the main stadium, projected to cost $3.7 billion and seat 63,000 fans, may not be completed on time. Activist Sue Bremner warned potential contractors of the risks involved, stating, “To those firms looking to get involved in this destructive project, we would say in the strongest possible terms: reconsider.”
Amid these tensions, Mander acknowledged the right to protest while reaffirming the government’s commitment to developing Victoria Park as the Games’ central hub. He noted that an Indigenous advisory board, led by former Olympian Patrick Johnson, is being assembled to ensure that First Nations perspectives are included in planning discussions.
The urgency of the situation is compounded by the Queensland Liberal National government‘s recent legislative moves to expedite the construction process by overriding 15 environmental and heritage acts. This legislative push aims to accelerate the development timeline, which has already seen significant delays since Brisbane was named the Olympic host over 1,300 days ago.
As the clock ticks down to the opening ceremonies, businesses, activists, and officials alike are closely watching the developments. The procurement opportunities are now open, and those interested should act quickly to secure their place in this historic event.
Stay tuned for more updates as this story unfolds, and visit our website for more information on how to participate in the 2032 Olympic preparations.
