2025 industry highlights

The Games Independent Infrastructure and Coordination Authority (GIICA) is responsible for the planning, design, construction and commission of 17 new and upgraded sports and entertainment venues across Queensland.

These projects will not only deliver exceptional venues for a show-stopping Olympic and Paralympic Games in 2032 but will create a legacy of sporting infrastructure Queenslanders will enjoy for generations.

Procurement is a critical part of this journey. It ensures transparency, accountability and value for money as we engage the best partners to bring these venues to life.

Reflecting on the year, GIICA CEO Simon Crooks acknowledged the procurement program for laying strong foundations for accelerated delivery from 2026.

“We have made real progress this year, working closely with industry and community partners, advancing planning, approvals, design, and early works,” Mr Crooks said.

“As the year comes to a close, I want to give a special mention to our procurement team and the sheer volume of opportunities which they have shared with the market.

“We are on track to deliver the most ambitious sporting venues program in Queensland’s history.

“As we close out 2025 and look back on our first full year, it’s a great to reflect on the significant progress made across our venue portfolio and prepare for an equally busy procurement pipeline in 2026.”

This year, we achieved several key milestones that have set the foundation for successful delivery.

Following a portfolio-wide Registration of Interest (ROI) for all 17 GIICA venues in August, many procurement opportunities have been released to market, with several already awarded.

Most recently, the consortium Unite32 was appointed as GIICA’s Delivery Partner. Unite32’s team will integrate with GIICA’s highly experienced team to bolster program management, procurement, and risk mitigation, with a focus on world-class outcomes and transformational legacy.

The first half of 2026 is set to be an exciting period as momentum builds. We’re on track to award several tenders, including:

• Principal Architect for the new Brisbane Stadium
• Principal Architect for the new National Aquatic Centre
• Principal Design Consultants for: Barlow Park Stadium, Sunshine Coast Stadium, Logan Indoor Sport Centre, Moreton Bay Indoor Sport Centre, and Redland Whitewater Centre
• Victoria Park Early Works Contractor.
• Writers and Principal Consultants to progress planning, design and approvals for: Queensland Tennis Centre, Chandler Sports Precinct, Rockhampton Flatwater Facility, Toowoomba Showgrounds, and Brisbane International Shooting Centre

Next year, two proponents will be asked to participate in a dual Early Contractor Involvement (ECI) process for Brisbane Stadium. Another key opportunity anticipated to be released to the market during the first half of 2026 is the Invitation to Offer (ITO) for the National Aquatic Centre Early Contractor Involvement.

Stay tuned for more updates in the new year as we continue to strengthen partnerships and build venues for the Games that are made for Queensland’s future.