As the Assistant Minister for Tourism, Early Learning, Creative Industries and Far North Queensland—and as a proud local—I’m thrilled to share that Cairns is officially locked in as a host city for the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.
Thanks to the 2025–26 Queensland Budget and a revised Intergovernmental Agreement with the Australian Government, we’re not just bringing the Games to our doorstep—we’re delivering a legacy of infrastructure and opportunity that will benefit our region for generations.
Barlow Park’s Time to Shine
At the heart of this announcement is a major upgrade to Barlow Park, which will be transformed into a premier venue ready to host Olympic-level events. These upgrades will include:
- A new grandstand with permanent seating for 5,000 people
- Facilities to support hosting major events like football and cricket
- Long-term benefits for local clubs and grassroots sport
This isn’t just an investment in a stadium—it’s an investment in the future of Cairns. It means more opportunities for our young athletes, more reasons for visitors to come to our region, and more ways for our community to come together.
What This Means for Cairns
The 2032 Delivery Plan sets the stage for real outcomes right across the Far North, including:
- The Cairns Convention Centre in the running to host Games events
- Significant upgrades to the Cairns Arterial Road and Bruce Highway
- Integration with our 20-year tourism vision, including projects like the Wangetti Trail
- A share in the $250 million Games On! program to upgrade local community sports clubs
This new funding partnership—announced by Deputy Premier Jarrod Bleijie—comes at a turning point. After years of uncertainty, the Crisafulli Government is putting regional Queensland back in the picture and on the podium.
“The 2032 Delivery Plan sent the Games to Far North Queensland, and with Barlow Park Stadium out for tender, we’re delivering the infrastructure to support it.”
We’re also making sure the process is smooth and efficient. The new Planning (Social Impact and Community Benefit) legislation passed last week will fast-track Games-related projects and ensure local voices are heard.
This is about more than sport. It’s about jobs, tourism, community pride, and a legacy that will last long after the final medal is awarded in 2032.
As your local voice in government, I’ll keep fighting to make sure Cairns and the Far North get the infrastructure and opportunities we deserve—not just for the Games, but for our future.
Let’s go, Cairns!
For more information and updates, visit www.delivering2032.com.au.
