Brisbane 2032 Strategy and Optimisation

Introduction

The Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games present an unparalleled opportunity for Queensland, Australia, and the broader Oceania region. The strategic positioning of the Brisbane Organising Committee (BOC) is essential to harness the full potential of this event, ensuring lasting economic, social, and environmental benefits. I outline here my thoughts only the importance of strategic positioning, emphasising the critical roles of leadership, sustainability, inclusivity, and innovation in achieving the vision for Brisbane 2032.

Leadership and Governance

Strategy & Optimisation is pivotal in designing and delivering the overarching strategy for Brisbane 2032. This BOC role includes developing systems and processes for strategy implementation, embedding optimisation across all delivery aspects, and creating unique stakeholder experiences. The BOC's responsibilities extend to managing interdependencies, ensuring operational efficiencies, and minimising risks, thereby providing robust governance and oversight essential for successful Games delivery.

Strategic Dashboards and Performance Reporting Implementing strategic dashboards and performance reporting systems is crucial for tracking progress and making informed decisions. These tools enable real-time monitoring of financial, operational, and stakeholder engagement metrics, ensuring that the BOC meets its strategic objectives and maintains transparency with all stakeholders.

Sustainability and Environmental Stewardship

Sustainability as a Core Principle The Brisbane 2032 Games are committed to integrating sustainability into every aspect of planning and execution. This includes transitioning to renewable energy, promoting a circular economy, and enhancing environmental resilience through green infrastructure projects. The BOC's focus on sustainability aligns with the broader Olympic Agenda 2020+5 recommendations, which emphasise fostering sustainable Olympic Games and strengthening the role of sport in advancing the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Learning from Past Games The Oxford Olympics Study 2024 highlights the persistent issue of cost overruns and their impact on the financial sustainability of the Games. Brisbane 2032 must learn from these lessons by implementing robust financial controls and risk management practices to avoid the pitfalls experienced by previous host cities. By focusing on cost-effective, sustainable solutions, such as reusing existing venues and integrating innovative technologies, Brisbane can set a new standard for managing the financial and environmental impact of the Games(ssrn-4850085).

Green Infrastructure Initiatives Initiatives like the Blue Heart Sunshine Coast and Gold Coast Greenheart projects exemplify the commitment to environmental stewardship. These projects aim to create sustainable urban environments that enhance biodiversity, provide recreational opportunities, and support climate resilience.

Inclusivity and Community Engagement

Inclusive Games Experience Brisbane 2032 aims to deliver a Games that celebrates diversity and promotes social inclusion. This includes incorporating Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures, languages, and stories into the Games experience, ensuring that these cultures are respectfully represented and celebrated on a global stage. The Games also seek to enhance accessibility for people with disabilities and foster inclusive community participation through targeted procurement and employment initiatives.

Community Legacy and Engagement The Elevate 2042 Legacy Strategy highlights the importance of engaging local communities in legacy planning. By involving diverse stakeholders in the co-creation of legacy initiatives, the BOC ensures that the benefits of the Games are widely distributed and aligned with community aspirations. This approach aims to create more connected, inclusive, and resilient communities long after the Games have concluded.

Economic Development and Innovation

Economic Impact and Job Creation The Brisbane 2032 Games are projected to generate significant economic benefits, including increased trade, tourism, and investment. Strategic investments in infrastructure and the promotion of high-value sectors such as sport, tourism, and creative industries are expected to drive long-term economic growth. The Games also present opportunities for local businesses to expand into new markets and enhance their sustainability credentials.

Innovation and Technology Leveraging emerging technologies and fostering innovation are critical to the success of Brisbane 2032. The BOC is committed to creating an environment that supports startups and scale-ups, particularly in the sports technology sector. This focus on innovation will not only enhance the Games experience but also position Brisbane and Queensland as leaders in sports technology and other future-focused industries.

Adopting a Modular Approach One of the recommendations from the Oxford Said 2024 study is the adoption of a modular approach to Games delivery. This strategy involves creating scalable, repeatable solutions that can be tailored to the specific needs of Brisbane 2032 while minimising costs and enhancing sustainability. By modularising aspects of the Games, such as temporary venues and infrastructure, Brisbane can reduce complexity and risk, ensuring a more efficient and cost-effective delivery(ssrn-4850085).

Top Ten Strategic Initiatives for the Brisbane 2032 Organising Committee

Adopt a Modular Approach to Event Delivery

• Initiative: Develop a scalable and repeatable framework for event delivery that can be adapted to different venues and contexts.
• Rationale: This approach, as recommended by the Oxford Said 2024 study, can help manage costs, reduce complexity, and improve efficiency. By creating modular components for infrastructure and operations, Brisbane 2032 can benefit from positive learning curves and cost reductions seen in other megaprojects.

Leverage Existing Venues and Infrastructure

• Initiative: Maximise the use of existing sports venues and facilities through retrofitting and refurbishment.
• Rationale: Paris 2024 has demonstrated the potential cost savings and environmental benefits of reusing existing infrastructure - how good is the beach volleyball under the Eiffel Tower. This approach aligns with the IOC's Agenda 2020+5 recommendations and can help mitigate the risk of cost overruns .

Implement Comprehensive Sustainability Programs

• Initiative: Integrate sustainability into all aspects of Games planning and execution, focusing on renewable energy, waste reduction, and green infrastructure.
• Rationale: Sustainability initiatives not only reduce environmental impact but also enhance the social and economic legacy of the Games. Projects like the Blue Heart Sunshine Coast and Gold Coast Greenheart exemplify the potential of green infrastructure .

Promote Indigenous Cultures and Languages

• Initiative: Embed Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures, languages, and stories into the Games experience through naming conventions, cultural programming, and educational initiatives.
• Rationale: Celebrating Indigenous cultures can create a unique and meaningful Games experience while supporting the preservation and revitalisation of these languages and traditions .

Enhance Regional Transport Connectivity

• Initiative: Develop and implement a comprehensive transport and mobility strategy to improve connectivity across the length and breadth of South East Queensland.
• Rationale: Improved transport infrastructure will benefit the region long after the Games, supporting economic growth, reducing congestion, and enhancing accessibility .

Focus on Inclusive Community Engagement

• Initiative: Engage diverse community stakeholders in the planning and legacy initiatives to ensure broad-based benefits and inclusivity.
• Rationale: Effective community engagement ensures that the benefits of the Games are widely shared and aligned with local aspirations, fostering social cohesion and resilience.

Advance Health and Wellbeing through Sports

• Initiative: Promote physical literacy and active lifestyles through community sports programs and health initiatives.
• Rationale: The Games provide a platform to enhance public health and wellbeing, encouraging lifelong participation in physical activities and sports.

Support Innovation and Technology in Sports

• Initiative: Invest in sports technology startups and innovation hubs to foster advancements in sports performance, safety, and fan engagement.
• Rationale: Leveraging emerging technologies can enhance the Games experience and position Brisbane as a leader in sports innovation, driving long-term economic benefits .

Develop Legacy Housing Projects

• Initiative: Accelerate the construction of the Athlete Village with a focus on creating sustainable housing and community facilities for post-Games use.
• Rationale: Legacy housing projects, such as those planned for Northshore Hamilton, can address local housing needs and showcase sustainability excellence .

Enhance Digital Engagement and Virtual Sports

• Initiative: Expand digital platforms and virtual sports initiatives to engage a global audience and promote the Games.
• Rationale: Growing digital engagement can increase the reach and impact of the Games, attracting new fans and participants while enhancing the overall experience for viewers worldwide.

Conclusion

The strategic positioning role the Brisbane 2032 Organising Committee undertakes is vital to the success of the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games. By emphasising leadership, sustainability, inclusivity, and innovation, and by learning from past experiences and studies, the BOC can ensure that Brisbane 2032 leaves a lasting legacy of economic prosperity, environmental stewardship, and social cohesion. This strategic approach will not only benefit Queensland and Australia but also set a new standard for future Olympic and Paralympic Games.