Professor Ali Cheshmehzangi, Head of School of Architecture, Design and Planning, The University of Queensland
Brisbane’s diverse community needs to be brought together for the 2032 Olympics in a way that fosters inclusive engagement and ensures that every group feels represented and heard. Firstly, we must have far-reaching initiatives on community outreach that prioritise the voices of different cultural, ethnic, and social groups. Inclusivity can be achieved by creating local committees with diversified memberships. These can hold regular town hall meetings, interviews questionnaires and workshops intended to seek views from all segments of the society.
This journey cannot occur without education campaigns and awareness creation. By emphasising how it benefits residents such as an increase in tourism, improvement of infrastructure, and community projects, people can feel proud about it like they own it. Schools and other educational facilities can organise learning events as well as cultural ceremonies that appreciate diversity in Brisbane and propagate Olympic principles like unity and fair play.
Collaboration with local artists and cultural organisations can create public art projects and festivals that reflect the city’s rich cultural tapestry. These initiatives can generate excitement and a shared sense of purpose. Additionally, leveraging social media and digital platforms can help disseminate information and updates about the games, ensuring that even those who may not attend physical events are kept informed and involved. Volunteering opportunities are another effective way to bring the community together. Creating a robust volunteer program that encourages participation from all demographic groups can foster a sense of camaraderie and shared responsibility.
The most important thing is if the government can be able to address any worries and issues of the people. It is essential to have trust and commitment in an event through listening and incorporating opinions from people of a society that holds it. These actions will enable Brisbane to exploit its variety as an asset, preparing a collective and dynamic population for global hosting in 2032.
How important is “Liveability” in what comes next?
It is important to apply multiple practices in creating a city that can be survived by the next generations, such as sustainable development, robust infrastructure, and urban planning that considers everyone. To start with, green spaces and environmental sustainability should take priority. Improved quality of life can be realised through the expansion of parks, urban forests, and community gardens which offer recreational facilities as well as relaxation areas. Besides, adherence to green building standards coupled with renewable energy sourcing will result in reduced carbon emissions from the city and increased ecological resilience.
The affordability of homes contributes to liveability. To prevent ghettoisation based on socioeconomic status as well as promote vibrant neighbourhoods, new developments should include different types of houses for all income levels. Measures supporting affordable rentals and homeownership for low- and middle-income earners are indispensable.
The modernisation of transportation infrastructure is essential to meet the demands of an increasing population. By investing in efficient and accessible public transit options, dedicated cycling lanes, and pedestrian-friendly roadways, we can alleviate traffic congestion and reduce pollution, while also encouraging healthier lifestyles. The incorporation of advanced technology in transportation, including real-time transit information and intelligent traffic management systems, can significantly improve both convenience and operational efficiency.
Access to high-quality healthcare, education, and social services is crucial. The establishment of advanced medical facilities, educational institutions, and community centers across diverse neighbourhoods guarantees that all residents have equitable access to health, education, and social welfare. Initiatives aimed at promoting mental health and fostering social inclusion, especially for at-risk groups, are of utmost importance.
It is ensured that development satisfies the needs and aspirations of residents through community engagement and participation in urban planning decisions. Encouraging public participation in planning procedures and keeping lines of communication open with the general public help to promote a sense of accountability and ownership. Ultimately, a vibrant and resilient economy can be produced by promoting economic opportunities via innovation hubs, training programs, and assistance for regional companies. In doing these, Brisbane can build an inclusive city by tackling these issues head-on.
Learning from the Past and Influencing Brisbane Cityscape: A Planning Perspective
The town planning lessons learned from previous Olympics could greatly impact Brisbane’s cityscape for the 2032 Games. The significance of sustainable development is one important lesson. Cities such as London and Tokyo have shown how beneficial it is to build infrastructure that meets short-term as well as long-term community needs. Brisbane can follow suit by making sure Olympic venues are planned with post-Games uses in mind, converting them into parks, community centers, and sports complexes. The necessity of thorough transportation planning is a further lesson. Past host cities have struggled with overcrowding on public transportation and traffic congestion. By making early investments in the development and modernisation of its bus, rail, and tram networks, Brisbane can lessen these problems. Moreover, creating Olympic-specific lanes and enhancing connectivity between venues and important city areas can help locals both during and after the Games. Participation of the community in planning processes is essential. Successful Olympic host cities, like Sydney, included local communities in the planning and decision-making process to make sure that development projects reflected the needs and preferences of the local populace. Brisbane can create committees and forums with representatives from a variety of the community to guarantee inclusive and involved planning.
Economic factors are also essential. After the Games, overcapitalisation and underutilised infrastructure caused severe financial strain for Rio de Janeiro and Athens. By creating a realistic budget, enlisting private funding, and making sure that Olympic projects generate long-term economic benefits like tourism and job creation, Brisbane can take a cue from past mistakes. Utilising smart city technology can improve the Olympics’ overall legacy and experience. An urban environment that is both sustainable and technologically advanced can be achieved by implementing smart infrastructure, such as digital connectivity, energy-efficient buildings, and intelligent traffic management systems. Brisbane can design a cityscape that not only satisfies the requirements of the Olympic Games but also improves the standard of living for its citizens long after the event by implementing these lessons.
Suggestions for Brisbane’s Economic Roadmap for the 2032 Games
In order to prevent overcapitalisation, Brisbane’s economic plan for the 2032 Olympics should strike a balance between prudent financial management and wise investment. Using the public-private partnership (PPP) model is one strategy. By doing so, the financial load can be shared and private sector creativity and experience in building infrastructure and services can be drawn in. Through precise delineation of roles and responsibilities, Brisbane can guarantee timely and cost-effective completion of projects. Setting long-term benefit investments as a top priority is essential. In addition to serving the Olympics, infrastructure projects ought to address current urban issues. For example, increasing public transit can ease traffic and make it easier for locals to commute every day. In a similar vein, building multipurpose spaces can guarantee that sports facilities are used for a variety of community activities following games.
Budgeting sustainably is crucial. Financial strain can be avoided by creating a realistic budget that considers possible cost overruns and economic fluctuations. For instance, creating a contingency fund can act as a safety net against unforeseen costs. Accountability and public trust can be preserved with regular financial audits and open reporting. Investments in marketing and tourism can pay off handsomely. Brisbane can draw tourists from abroad by marketing itself as a worldwide destination, which will help the city’s economy and the hospitality sector. Improving the infrastructure for tourism, like lodging and cultural sites, can guarantee a long-term economic benefit. Another important tactic is workforce development and support for small businesses in the area. Encouraging local businesses to participate in Olympic projects through training programs and incentives can boost the local economy. Making sure the jobs generated by the Olympics help locals, especially
Lastly, there are important lessons to be gained from studying the economic strategies of other host cities. Cities such as Los Angeles and London could profit because they could maximise revenue streams and closely control costs. By adopting best practices and carefully avoiding the mistakes made by cities such as Rio and Athens, Brisbane can develop a sustainable economic plan that will benefit the city long after the Olympic Games.