Brisbane's 2032 Olympics are poised to reshape the Queensland property landscape, creating unprecedented opportunities for savvy investors and homebuyers. Far from being just two weeks of sport, the Olympics spearhead a decade of transformation, driven by infrastructure investment, population growth, and a surge in global attention.
With the Queensland Government recently finalising key venue decisions following an
independent review, the path forward is becoming clearer, focusing on strategic upgrades to existing facilities like QSAC and confirming major new projects such as the Brisbane Arena.
As stated in their 2032 Delivery Plan, the Queensland Government is looking beyond just the uplift to the sunshine state due to the Olympics, but also how Queensland can capitalise on the increase in demand for tourism statewide with its parallel plan ‘Destination 2045’, a 20 year tourism plan.
But navigating this evolving market requires more than just guesswork. This in-depth guide, brought to you by Hunter Gather, Brisbane's leading buyer's agency, will provide you with the data-driven insights and actionable strategies you need to make informed decisions based on the latest developments.
You're probably wondering if the Olympic hype translates to real-world property gains. History offers some compelling clues. Let's look back at previous host cities to see if a pattern emerges.
What happened in Sydney?
Consider Sydney's experience in 2000. Academic research found that, in the years leading up to the Games, properties in suburbs that were geographically close to the Olympic site increased by more than could be explained by general factors.
Also, research showed that Sydney's median house price increased by 53% across the relevant timeframe for the 2000 Olympics, which was significantly higher than the national trend of 30% during the same period
While pinpointing exact figures requires digging through detailed historical records from the Australian Bureau of Statistics or CoreLogic, the trend is clear: the Olympics created a noticeable property ripple effect.
And what about London?
London's 2012 Games offer another perspective. The British capital saw a pre-Games property price surge, especially in areas undergoing significant regeneration directly linked to the Olympics.
According to Nationwide Building Society, one of the UK's largest mortgage lenders, all six Olympic host boroughs experienced house price increases that exceeded the London average since the Games. The London borough of Newham (where the Olympic Park was located) saw house prices rise by 81% between 2012 and 2021. This was significantly higher than the average price growth across Greater London during the same period, which came to 61%.
Even more impressively, Waltham Forest recorded the biggest increase among Olympic boroughs, with average house prices more than doubling (106% increase) since 2012. Barking and Dagenham also saw remarkable growth at 86%.
These factors combine to create a more desirable, and therefore more valuable, property market. So, while past performance isn't a guarantee of future results, the historical precedent suggests a strong connection between hosting the Olympics and experiencing a boost in property values.
You've likely noticed that Brisbane property prices aren't exactly cheap. Before we look ahead to the Olympic effect, it's crucial to understand why the market is already so hot. Several forces are at play, pushing prices upward.
People are moving here in droves
One major factor is interstate migration. Queensland, and Brisbane in particular, has been attracting a significant influx of new residents from other parts of Australia, all seeking sunshine, lifestyle, and, until recently, relatively more affordable housing.
This population growth creates increased demand, and when demand outpaces supply, prices naturally rise. While historically low interest rates fueled much of the recent price surge, it's important to remember they are a factor of the past.
Limited Supply
Another key issue is the limited supply of housing in many desirable Brisbane suburbs. Add to this a degree of pre-Olympic speculation – the anticipation of future price growth is already contributing to today's higher prices.
According to the Real Estate Institute of Queensland (REIQ), Brisbane's median house price reached a specific high in a recent quarter, showing a notable year-on-year percentage increase.
This sets the stage for the changes, both exciting and challenging, that the 2032 Olympics are likely to bring. It will give us context on the current state of property prices.
Key Drivers of the 2032 Growth Engine
So, what specific factors tied to the 2032 Olympics will shape Brisbane's property market in the coming years? Several key drivers will be working in concert to influence prices.
Infrastructure Boom
Think beyond just stadiums, especially now the government has confirmed a shift towards upgrading existing facilities alongside targeted new builds. The Olympics still need massive infrastructure investment, and these improvements will have a lasting impact on property values.
Consider the $6.3 billion Cross River Rail project. This will not just help move spectators but also fundamentally improve connectivity across Brisbane, linking directly to key Olympic zones, including the newly confirmed Brisbane Arena.
Suburbs like Roma Street, Dutton Park, and Bowen Hills, all served by new or improved transport links including Cross River Rail stations, are poised to become even more desirable.
Similarly, the $1.7 billion Brisbane Metro will improve public transport in the inner city, making it easier to get around and connecting key venues like the Brisbane Arena.
While the previously proposed $2.7 billion Gabba redevelopment is no longer on the table, the government has instead committed to a major $1.6 billion upgrade of the existing Queensland Sport and Athletics Centre (QSAC) in Nathan, transforming it into the primary venue for athletics. This investment will revitalise the Nathan precinct.
In what is being call the most significant investment in Australian swimming history, the $650 million transformation of the Centernery pool in Brisbane into the National Aquatic Centre and Precint will bring massive growth to Spring Hill.
The Gabba itself will still receive necessary upgrades (budgeted around $500 million) to keep it suitable for legacy sports like AFL and cricket post-Games, though not the major transformation initially planned.
Overall, these projects represent long-term investments in Brisbane's future connectivity and sporting infrastructure.
Population and Job Growth
The Olympics aren't just about attracting tourists – they're about attracting people. The Games are projected to create 91,600 full-time equivalent job years, a substantial boost to the local economy.
This influx of jobs, combined with Queensland's ongoing population growth fueled by interstate migration, will significantly increase the demand for housing. More people needing homes means upward pressure on prices, especially in areas well-served by the new infrastructure.
Global Spotlight
Hosting the Olympics puts Brisbane on the world stage. This increased global visibility has a powerful effect. It attracts not only tourists but also international investors, businesses, and skilled workers – all looking to be part of a growing, dynamic city.
This heightened interest translates to greater demand for property, further contributing to price appreciation. The Olympics essentially accelerate Brisbane's evolution into a truly global city.
Which Brisbane suburbs should you invest in?
Now comes the critical question what suburbs will benefit most from the 2032 Olympics infrastructure spend? It's no longer about speculating on potential stadium sites, but understanding the impact of the confirmed projects.
Many clients also ask us directly, 'which suburbs in Brisbane will boom in 2025 and beyond?'
At Hunter Gather, we use a multi-factor approach, our "Suburb Scorecard," to identify areas with the highest potential.
We consider alignment with confirmed major infrastructure projects like the QSAC upgrade and the Brisbane Arena, proximity to Games activity hubs, current affordability relative to projected growth, and crucial lifestyle factors like school quality and access to amenities.
Suburbs at the Heart of the Olympic Action
Several Brisbane suburbs will be central to the Olympic festivities, hosting key events and accommodating athletes and visitors. Notable among these are:
Herston, Kelvin Grove, and Spring Hill: These suburbs encompass the 64-hectare Victoria Park, the proposed site for the new 63,000-seat Brisbane Stadium. This venue will host the opening and closing ceremonies, as well as athletic events, positioning these neighborhoods at the epicenter of the Games.
Bowen Hills: Adjacent to Victoria Park, Bowen Hills will feature the upgraded RNA Showgrounds, set to host the athletes' village and a 20,000-seat arena for key events.
Spring Hill: This suburb will be home to the new National Aquatic Centre at the existing Centenary Pool site, with a capacity of 25,000, hosting swimming, diving, water polo, and artistic swimming events.
Suburbs Benefiting from Enhanced Transport Infrastructure
The Games have accelerated plans for substantial transport infrastructure improvements, enhancing connectivity across Brisbane. Suburbs set to benefit include:
Suburbs Experiencing the 'Knock-On Effect'
Beyond the immediate vicinity of event venues and transport hubs, several suburbs are expected to experience a 'ripple effect' from the overall economic uplift, population growth, and improved connectivity associated with the Games. Notable examples include:
Woolloongabba, East Brisbane, and Kangaroo Point: Proximity to the Gabba, slated for demolition and urban renewal post-Games, positions these suburbs for significant redevelopment and property value appreciation.
Tennyson, Boondall, Chandler, and Belmont: These suburbs are earmarked for various sporting events and facility upgrades, likely enhancing their profiles and desirability.
Redlands Area: With the construction of the new Redland Whitewater centre this area may see increased investment and infrastructure improvements, boosting its appeal.
Analysts predict that suburbs at the heart of significant Olympic infrastructure spending could see property prices nearly double by 2032, reflecting trends observed in previous host cities.
In summary, the 2032 Brisbane Olympics present a unique opportunity for various suburbs to experience growth and revitalization. For property buyers and investors, understanding these dynamics is essential to capitalize on the potential benefits arising from this global event.
While the 2032 Brisbane Olympics will shine a global spotlight on the Queensland capital, the long term impact of this multi-billion-dollar event won’t stop at city limits. The Queensland Government has been very clear that this is a Games for all of Queensland.
We expect the entire state to benefit, however in Hunter Gathers opinion there are some key regions set to benefit most from the infrastructure upgrades, tourism boom, and economic uplift the Games will bring.
Outside of Brisbane the two key region set to gain the most are the Gold Coast and the Sunshine Coast. These areas represent strong opportunities for property consideration.
While the 2032 Brisbane Olympics will shine a global spotlight on the Queensland capital, the long term impact of this multi-billion-dollar event won’t stop at city limits. The Queensland Government has been very clear that this is a Games for all of Queensland.
We expect the entire state to benefit, however in Hunter Gathers opinion there are some key regions set to benefit most from the infrastructure upgrades, tourism boom, and economic uplift the Games will bring.
Outside of Brisbane the two key region set to gain the most are the Gold Coast and the Sunshine Coast. These areas represent strong opportunities for property consideration.
How Sunshine Coast Real Estate Will Benefit From The 2032 Brisbane Olymipcs
The second third of the three key host zones is Sunshine Coast, with so much already to offer, here’s what you need to know about how real estate in the Sunshine Coast will benefit from the 2032 Brisbane Olympics.
A brand new athlete village in Maroochydore, and the complete upgrade to Sunshine Coast Stadium in Kawana set to receive and additional 10,000 permanent seats.
We can’t discuss Sunshine Coast benefiting from the Games without mentioning The Wave To Sunshine Coast Airport Project. This is a significant development for the region, which will see the delivery of a new heavy rail line metro hub. This hub will connec the Sunshine Coast Airport to Maroochydore. Certain pockets of the region will see a rise in demand due to this increase in accessibility to the shopping centres and major transport hubs.
We see this driving more demand for older generations as Sunshine Coast is already popular with retirees, this massive transport development makes parts of the region even more attractive, driving demand for well located property.
Not only will key areas in both Gold Coast and Sunshine Coast enjoy a significant uptick in infrastructure spending, each zone will experience a large increase in tourism demand and popularity globally. Something that the Queensland government not only believe but are planning for.
We see both areas alongside Brisbane as very strong performing property markets over the next couple of decades.
You might be wondering when the best time to invest is, especially given the updated venue plan. It's not as straightforward as waiting for the Olympic torch to be lit. Understanding the "infrastructure time lag" is key.
Understanding potential timelines is crucial for estimating how much Brisbane house prices will rise by 2032.
Property price growth often precedes the actual completion of major infrastructure projects. The mere announcement (or confirmation, in this case) of a significant upgrade or new facility can trigger speculation and drive prices up.
However, there can be a lull between the confirmation and the project's completion, a period of uncertainty and perhaps slower growth.
Then, once the project is operational and people experience the tangible benefits – improved transport, revitalised precincts around venues like QSAC or the Brisbane Arena – you often see another surge in demand and prices.
A look at previous projects
Looking back at past Brisbane infrastructure projects, like the Clem7 tunnel or Airport Link, you can often see this pattern: initial excitement, a plateau, and then renewed growth.
This means that for long-term investors (those with a 5-10 year horizon or longer), the window of opportunity might be before major milestones for projects like the QSAC upgrade or the Brisbane Arena construction. Capturing value often means acting before the benefits are fully realised by the wider market.
For those seeking quicker returns, areas where transport projects like Cross River Rail stations are nearing completion, or where upgrades to existing facilities are well underway, could offer a more immediate boost. This strategy depends heavily on the specific area and the individual investor's profile.
This is the million-dollar question, isn't it? The answer, especially now that key venue decisions are confirmed, remains nuanced. The potential for significant capital growth in the lead-up to 2032 is still strong, driven by confirmed infrastructure plans, ongoing population growth, and the global spotlight of the Olympics.
With the expected increase in the Brisbane 2032 Olympics property prices, rental yields in strategically chosen areas are also likely to be robust.
However, there are risks to consider. Potential oversupply, particularly in the apartment market near newly confirmed major projects, could temper gains if not carefully navigated. And, of course, broader economic shifts always remain a factor.
While past performance isn't a guarantee, historical data from previous Olympic host cities does suggest a strong likelihood of property price appreciation linked to the Games' infrastructure legacy.
Ultimately, whether now is the right time for you to invest depends on your individual circumstances, investment goals, and risk tolerance. A careful assessment of your financial situation and a long-term perspective are vital.
Navigating the Brisbane property market in the lead-up to the 2032 Olympics was always complex, and the recent finalisation and shifts in venue plans make expert guidance more crucial than ever.
Relying on outdated assumptions about infrastructure impact is a risky strategy. That's where Hunter Gather comes in.
As Brisbane's leading buyer's agency, we specialise in helping investors and homebuyers capitalise on the unique opportunities presented by this transformative event.
Our "Suburb Scorecard," a proprietary multi-factor analysis tool, is constantly updated to reflect the latest data. It helps you identify suburbs with the highest potential for growth, taking into account not just Olympic proximity but also infrastructure alignment, affordability, and lifestyle factors.
We provide access to off-market properties, giving you an edge in a competitive market, and our expert negotiation skills ensure you secure the best possible price.
Unlike other agencies simply riding the hype, we focus on finding you the right property – one that aligns with your investment goals and sets you up for long-term success.
Ready to capitalise on the Brisbane 2032 Olympic property boom? Contact Hunter Gather today for a free consultation.