The Queensland and federal governments have agreed upon an AUS$7bn funding agreement for the re-development of The Brisbane Cricket Ground, commonly known as ‘The Gabba’. Construction is planned to start in 2026 for completion in 2030, with the new 50,000 seat stadium estimated to cost AUS$2.7bn.
The AUS$2.7bn Gabba Stadium redevelopment will see the stadium fully demolished and rebuilt, with improved disability access and better transport connection. The announcement follows the funding agreement between the Australian and Queensland Governments that sees a AUS$7bn-plus infrastructure program and the cost of delivering the Brisbane 2032 Master Plan shared.
The new Gabba will include a pedestrian walkway linking the stadium to the new Cross River Rail station and future Metro station, via a bridge over Main Street, providing greater accessibility for those with all levels of mobility, making it one of the most accessible stadiums in the country.
“We know hosting the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to accelerate the infrastructure and housing we need to support a growing Queensland,” said Queensland Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk, adding, “It’s important we further capitalise on major transport projects already under way like Cross River Rail and Brisbane Metro.”
The government unveiled renders and plans for a major revitalization of Woolloongabba, as seen below. The Woolloongabba Priority Development Area (PDA) will be expanded to encompass more of Woolloongabba and the Stanley Street precinct to South Bank. The process will involve community consultation in preparation of a development scheme for the expanded PDA. There has been some concern expressed by the local community over issues of displacement. Notably, East Brisbane State School will not be able to continue at its current location beyond December 2025. Community consultation on several options is underway, including relocating the school to new facilities at a nearby site.
In a media statement, the Queensland government said given the complexity of building on a constrained site, completely rebuilding the Gabba is cheaper than trying to bring it to a truly accessible, modern standard. Construction is planned to start in 2026 for completion in 2030, with the new 50,000 seat stadium estimated to cost AUS$2.7bn. The current Woolloongabba Priority Development Area will be expanded to encompass more of Woolloongabba and the Stanley Street precinct to South Bank.
Along with connecting Cross River Rail and the Brisbane Metro, it will deliver a walkable connection to South Bank and Brisbane Central Business District (CBD) via Brisbane City Council’s new green bridge. “A new Gabba delivers more options for international sport and entertainment events that contribute millions of dollars to Brisbane’s visitor economy,” said Tourism and Sport Minister Stirling Hinchcliffe.
