Queensland allocates nearly $300 million to revamp Brisbane's RNA showgrounds for 2032 Olympics

Queensland has announced a $278.5 million upgrade of Brisbane’s RNA showgrounds ahead of the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games. The renovation will modernise the 20,000-seat outdoor arena, refresh the Machinery Hill grandstand, and replace the existing horse stables with a new multi-storey pavilion, while adding major accessibility pathways for athletes and visitors. The upgrade is financed within a $3.5 billion package earmarked for athletes’ villages, which will accommodate up to 10,000 competitors before being converted to housing.

Construction will begin after the 150th Ekka, ensuring the annual event proceeds uninterrupted. Deputy Premier Jarrod Bleijie confirmed the $287.5 million figure aligns with the RNA’s request and will be delivered on schedule by Hutchinson Builders. RNA chief executive Brendan Christou highlighted the design’s vertical expansion and legacy benefits for future events.