Built for the Future
Stepping into Brisbane, it was impossible to miss the scale of investment reshaping the city. With an ambitious $25 billion infrastructure pipeline, Brisbane is redefining its urban landscape in preparation for the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.
The newly completed Neville Bonner Bridge, which links Queen’s Wharf to South Bank, is just one example of how the city’s design is focused on sustainable connectivity. As a walkable, compact city, Brisbane encourages ease of movement, whether on foot or via its bike and walking paths. The Brisbane River has become the city’s heart, winding through precincts that are now connected by new bridges and walkways.
A transformative project was Howard Smith Wharves, a once-overlooked stretch of land that has been transformed into an entertainment precinct by a local business partners. Completed in late 2018 and continuing to evolve, this waterfront development provides event spaces, dining, and public areas, taking advantage of the river views and accessibility. Additionally, the South Bank cultural precinct, with over 90 bars, restaurants, and cafes, Brisbane’s 17-hectare convention hub offers an exciting mix of business and leisure experiences.
“As Brisbane prepares for the spotlight ahead of the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games, the thriving capital is undergoing a remarkable transformation. Investment in new infrastructure is paving the way for world-class event spaces, advanced transport links, and exceptional accommodation and hospitality services,” says Lorelle Chittick, General Manager of Tourism, Business and Major Events at the Brisbane Economic Development Agency (BEDA).
Brains, Business & BCEC
The ease of doing business in Brisbane does not go unnoticed. Nowhere is this more evident than at the Brisbane Convention & Exhibition Centre (BCEC), a venue with a forward-thinking approach to events. Ranked among Australia’s top convention centres, BCEC is one of the largest in the country (boasting a Great Hall with a capacity of 4,000) with a sustainable mentality. The venue has earned EarthCheck Platinum certification, with sustainability initiatives that include solar panels supplying over 40% of its power to its Grey Street building, daylight harvesting reducing energy use by 30%, and rainwater harvesting that supports surrounding parklands.
During my visit, I had the opportunity to speak with Alison Gardiner, Director of Sales, Strategy & Partnerships at BCEC, who described Brisbane’s strength in intellectual capital. “Brisbane is a city where intellectual exchange happens every day across three universities and Australia’s largest medical research centre. The collaborative nature of our business and academic communities means that associations don’t just come here for events; they leave with new ideas, new partnerships, and a lasting connection to our research and innovation hubs.”
In fact, Brisbane has strong expertise in key sectors such as health, energy, advanced manufacturing, and agriculture, making it an attractive destination for association events looking to tap into local knowledge.
A discussion with Professor Bruce Abernethy, Executive Director of 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games Engagement at the University of Queensland and a BCEC advocate, revealed that the region is focusing on collaboration across these fields on an academic and economic level to boost innovation: “Brisbane 2032 is a catalyst for innovation across disciplines. At UQ, we’re working with industry and government to ensure the Games deliver a sustainable, knowledge-rich legacy that benefits communities well beyond Queensland.”
Deep Culture, Low Environmental Impact
Brisbane sees sustainability efforts as part of its intellectual capital. Ranked 33rd on the Global Destination Sustainability Index and Top 5 in Asia-Pacific, the city has steadily climbed the rankings since 2019, proving that its commitment to environmental responsibility is more than just words.
Brisbane’s 900 km network of bike and pedestrian paths ensures that sustainable travel is a way of life. Even public transport is designed with accessibility and sustainability in mind – thanks to an integrated transport network where a single 50-cent fare allows seamless travel across buses, trains, and ferries, extending all the way to the Gold Coast. A new metro line currently under construction will further enhance this transport system.
With the help of such initiatives (and more to come by then) show that the city is gunning to fulfill its promise: Brisbane is the first in the Games history to be contractually committed to delivering a sustainable event.
However, as valuable as environmental responsibility is for the city, art, culture, and deep connections to its Indigenous heritage are just as important. The Queensland Art Gallery | Gallery of Modern Art (QAGOMA)offers versatile meeting spaces and an environment that encourages creative thinking, combining these two elements. BCEC also offers a unique permanent Aboriginal art gallery, reflecting the city’s deep respect for First Nations culture and history.
One of the most memorable experiences of my trip was a breathtaking helicopter ride to Minjerribah (North Stradbroke Island), just a short boat trip from Brisbane and only 30 minutes from the mainland. There, I had the privilege of meeting Delvene Cockatoo Collins, an acclaimed Aboriginal artist and storyteller. Her connection to Country and how her art reflects the cultural history of her people adds a meaningful layer to any event hosted in Brisbane.
With its ease of access – 32 direct international flight connections and an airport just 20 minutes from the city centre – and its year-round subtropical climate, Brisbane is a city with a strong appeal. Add knowledge-based resources and optimal infrastructure and you have a winner.
As Chittick days: “Collaboration is Brisbane’s secret sauce behind our world-class business events scene. At BEDA, we connect organisers with our top venue partners, industry leaders and stakeholders, cutting-edge research hubs and unforgettable local tourism experiences to elevate your event. With a powerhouse ecosystem of science, technology, and innovation, alongside acclaimed event facilities, Brisbane is the ultimate destination for association conferences that leave a lasting impact.”