A new action plan has outlined how the Sunshine Coast hopes to turn the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games into long-term benefits for the area.
Sunshine Coast Council has launched the Sunshine Coast Legacy Action Plan 2026–2031, a roadmap of 40 practical actions that use the Games as a catalyst to accelerate infrastructure, programs and investment the growing region needs.
The plan focuses on delivering community infrastructure and world-class sporting venues, alongside everyday benefits for residents.
Sunshine Coast Mayor Rosanna Natoli said the plan was about making sure locals were the real winners.
“For the Sunshine Coast, co-hosting the Games was never just about sport,” she said as the region marked six years to go.
“It’s about the once-in-a-lifetime opportunities and the positives for our community, long after the closing ceremonies in 2032.
“This plan brings forward the things our residents have been asking us for: better transport, community facilities and stronger support for grassroots sport, plus more opportunities for local business, our artists and our young people.
“Our community shaped the Legacy Action Plan: their priorities are on every page. I am incredibly proud that this Legacy Action Plan has been created by local voices, reflecting their hopes and dreams.
“It’s practical and its ambitious. Delivering the plan will take every level of government, industry and our community, working together.”
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Sunshine Coast Council 2032 Legacy Group chair and Paralympian Dr Bridie Kean said it was a privilege to work alongside community representatives and Council to ensure the region was better off.
“We brought together voices from First Nations, sport, tourism, youth, education, disability and business,” she said.
“We have worked collectively over several years to shape a Legacy Action Plan that reflects what our region wants and what will create lasting benefits for everyone.”
Mayor Natoli said major infrastructure investments would be among the region’s most significant Games legacies.
“The Sunshine Coast Stadium upgrade, the Sunshine Coast Arena, The Wave, the Sunshine Coast Mountain Bike Centre and the Athletes’ Village will shape the region for decades,” she said.
“Our region identified these projects years ago. The Games give us the catalyst: the reason to bring them to life now.”
“When the athletes go home, the infrastructure stays with us: for local clubs, local families and local events.”
The plan includes actions to support local suppliers, strengthen procurement networks, grow tourism, attract investment and accommodation, develop Games-related supply chains and connect local and First Nations businesses with future projects and events.
Mayor Natoli said these opportunities were already coming through the pipeline.
“We want our local businesses and local workers sharing in the benefits, that come with co-hosting the Games,” she aid.
“Opportunities linked to The Wave and other Games infrastructure projects are already flowing to Sunshine Coast businesses.”
“Now is the time to get ready. Let’s build capability and strengthen networks.”
Key actions of the plan include: better connections to key destinations and Games venues, including the Beerburrum to Nambour Rail Upgrade and the Mooloolah River Interchange; new opportunities to get active, through improved facilities and programs; more accessible and inclusive venues, events and programs across the region; showcasing local arts, culture and First Nations heritage to a global audience; volunteering and community involvement opportunities in the lead-up to 2032; growing sustainable tourism and new visitor experiences; delivering the new Sunshine Coast Mountain Bike Centre; and supporting delivery of the Sunshine Coast Stadium upgrade and The Wave.
Thirty-five of the 40 actions are already funded through existing operational budgets, Council’s endorsed capital works program, and external commitments, including projects in the Queensland Government’s 2032 Delivery Plan.
The remaining five actions will be tested through investigation, a business case and considered as part of future budget planning, alongside every other priority.
The clock is ticking to the Games.
More than 350 students from Kawana Waters State College Primary School took to Sunshine Coast Stadium last week to celebrate six years to go.
The students formed a giant ‘6’, marking the countdown to the Games and the region’s role as a co-host.
It’s hoped the students can return to stadium when the upgrade is complete.
Games infrastructure
Sunshine Coast Stadium
The Sunshine Coast Stadium upgrade project has reached design phase and is on track to open to the community in 2030.
Permanent seating at the stadium will expand from 1046 to more than 10,000, boosting capacity to host major sporting and entertainment events while delivering a world-class, inclusive place to celebrate local, national and international talent.
Sunshine Coast Mountain Bike Centre
The Sunshine Coast Mountain Bike Centre at Maroochy River is on track to open in 2030, creating the region’s first purpose‑built, nature‑based recreation precinct.
With world‑class mountain bike trails, trail running and bushwalking, it will connect into more than 40km of existing trails through Parklands Conservation Park.
Arena and Athlete Village
Momentum is building around the proposed arena and athlete village in the Maroochydore City Centre, supporting the Coast’s emerging CBD with ongoing planning and design works being undertaken.
Beyond the Games, the arena is set to attract entertainment, cultural and community events as an exhibition centre, strengthening Maroochydore as a vibrant regional hub.
View the full Legacy Action Plan at sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au/2032-games-legacy.
