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Australia

Gather Brisbane selected for $1.4 billion arena as questions remain over commercial terms

2026-11-15

Historical construction photograph of Bangkok Arena, illustrative, not the Brisbane project.

Queensland has selected Gather Brisbane as the preferred delivery consortium for the $1.4 billion Brisbane Arena at Woolloongabba. The government expects work to begin in January and completion in 2031, ahead of the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games. The selection is an announced project step, not confirmation that construction has already started.

The consortium comprises Live Nation, Oak View Group, Plenary and Webuild and was chosen over Brisbane Entertainment Alliance. The planned venue would seat 17,000 for sport and up to 18,700 for concerts. Next to the new Woolloongabba Cross River Rail station, it is intended to replace the Brisbane Entertainment Centre at Boondall.

Deputy Premier Jarrod Bleijie said the state would pay a one-off $600 million contribution after delivery. The arrangement would run for 40 years, with maintenance duties on the consortium and operator. He said the commercial terms would be locked in before the end of the year and that the state would retain land ownership.

Development rights at the nearby Gabba site form part of the transaction. After the 2032 Games, the government would decommission and demolish the stadium, with the site expected to provide public space and almost 4,000 homes. Bleijie rejected the description that land was being given away, characterising the arena and housing components as a linked commercial deal. The precise allocation of rights and risks still depends on the final contract.

Opposition deputy leader Cameron Dick welcomed the arena proceeding but called for the contract details to be published, questioning public payment for a venue the state would not own and the protection against excessive pricing. Brisbane musicians Lisa and Jess Origliasso of The Veronicas welcomed the opportunities for major acts. Support for a new venue and scrutiny of its financial terms are distinct issues, both still relevant as the agreement is finalised.

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