Built environment institutes call for design input over Brisbane 2032 Olympics

The Australian Institute of Architects Queensland chapter, in collaboration with the Australian Institute of Landscape Architects, the Planning Institute of Australia, and the Design Institute of Australia, has united to advocate for the implementation of key design and planning strategies for the upcoming Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

The four Australian architecture, design and planning institutes, which collectively represent over 26,000 professionals, have submitted a Green Pathways, Gold Places initiative to the Games Independent Infrastructure and Coordination Authority. This initiative was submitted in response to a 100 Day Review conducted by the authority, which invited public input on the infrastructure and planning of the Games.

In their submission, the institutes highlight the importance of infrastructure that not only serves its immediate purpose of hosting the Games but also supports sustainable, long-term city planning objectives.

The four key recommendations outlined in Green Pathways, Gold Places iniative include:

According to the document, the proposed Design Coordination Unit would serve as a centralised multidisciplinary unit responsible for coordinating and integrating design and place outcomes for the Brisbane 2032 Games. The unit would collaborate with games partners and the independent authority on planning decisions. President of the Queensland chapter of the Australian Institute of Architects (AIA) Caroline Stalker said design expertise is crucial for achieving long-lasting, sustainable benefits for the community beyond just the Games period.

"Embedding multidisciplinary design expertise early ensures consistent, climate-conscious outcomes while avoiding costly design compromises and urban blight," she said.

The submission highlights that a green grid strategy is vital for achieving the Games' net-positive commitment, enhancing connectivity across the city and reducing vehicles on the road. The institutes' submission asserts that the implementation of a green grid would support recreational use, biodiversity, waterway health, as well as health and wellbeing benefits for commuters and visitors across the city.

President of the Queensland chapter of the Australian Institute of Landscape Architects (AILA) Glen Power emphasised that "Green infrastructure is not just about sustainability; it's about creating healthier, more connected and livable communities."

"By investing in a green grid, we can leave a legacy of vibrant, walkable precincts that benefit Brisbane for generations to come," said Power.

The submission recommends a precinct-based planning approach that integrates stadia and venues into the existing physical, cultural and environmental fabric of the broader context.

President of the Planning Institute of Australia's (PIA) Queensland division Sean Cullen stated decisions about Games venues and infrastructure must begin and end with precinct-scale planning to ensure cohesive integration with surrounding communities and transport networks.

"To ensure the success of individual venues, we must design them as part of cohesive precincts supported by integrated transport and public realm infrastructure," Cullen said.

"Aligning funding with community-focused design ensures enduring value and avoids the burden of increased lifetime costs on the state," said chair of the Queensland chapter of the Design Institute of Australia (DIA) Daniel Spat. "By integrating design and place-making into funding strategies, we can deliver community assets that stand the test of time."

To view the full submission, visit here.