A Brisbane Olympics will need to benefit the entire state: CCIQ
The naming of Brisbane as the preferred host for the 2032 Olympic Games offers exciting opportunities, said the Chamber of Commerce and Industry Queensland (CCIQ,) but there needs to be a focus on how the whole state could benefit from pre-Games procurement, the Games themselves and its legacy.
Hosting the Olympic Games can provide a wide range of benefits to Queensland, as long opportunities are maximised and risks mitigated, explained CCIQ’s senior policy advisor, Gus Mandigora.
“While the Olympics themselves are years away, the opportunities begin now,” Mr Mandigora said.
“The accelerated infrastructure investment is a huge draw, as is the ability to spread the games beyond Brisbane.
“Additionally, we welcome the newly stated “legacy first” approach which increases long-term benefits for the Games host and reduces the risk of stranded assets.
“And while that is positive, what is essential is that small businesses throughout Queensland are engaged and given adequate procurement opportunities to deliver those projects.
“The potential is enormous but will not materialise on its own. Business and government need to work closely with the IOC to ensure that all these stated benefits actually accrue to Queensland and its small business community,” said Mr Mandigora.