Queensland's Deputy Premier has launched a fiery defence of the planned $3.8 billion Brisbane Olympic Stadium, dismissing community critics as "loopy" and "a bunch of nimbys" during the announcement of the project's high-profile design team.
Bleijie's Blunt Defence of Victoria Park Plan
Deputy Premier Jarrod Bleijie did not mince words when confronted with concerns from the Save Victoria Park advocacy group during a press conference on Monday, January 5, 2026. The group has opposed the stadium's location in the inner-north Brisbane parklands since 2020, citing the site's cultural and environmental significance and its sacred status to Indigenous peoples.
When asked to comment on the group's ongoing campaign, Mr Bleijie's retort was swift: "Loopy, next question." He further characterised the opposition as "a bunch of nimbys who don't want anything to happen."
Mr Bleijie asserted that the project was proceeding "exactly and accordingly to our 2032 delivery plan" and would deliver the legacy promised to Queenslanders. He also addressed concerns over the stadium's planned 63,000-seat capacity, stating it was significantly larger than both Suncorp Stadium and The Gabba.
While he confirmed the seat number was firm due to the budget "not budging," he left the door open, saying if a way to squeeze more seats from the budget was found, they would "make it happen."
World-Class Architecture Team Appointed
The state government revealed the consortium tasked with designing the landmark venue. The team comprises Australian architecture firms Cox and Hassell, alongside Japan's Azusa Sekkei.
This selection followed a rigorous three-month process conducted by the Games Independent Infrastructure and Coordination Authority (GIICA) to find the "best of the best." The partnership brings together formidable stadium expertise.
Cox and Hassell are the celebrated duo behind Perth's Optus Stadium and the redevelopments of Adelaide Oval and the Melbourne Cricket Ground. Azusa Sekkei boasts a portfolio of 120 stadiums, including the centrepiece of the 2020 Tokyo Games, the Japan National Stadium.
GIICA chairman Stephen Conry expressed confidence the team would "help put Brisbane on the world map where it belongs, when we host magnificent events in a magnificent stadium."
A Stadium Designed for Queensland's Character
The architects have already begun framing their vision for the project, emphasising a deep connection to place. COX Architecture director Richard Coulson stated the design would reflect a distinct "Queensland character," fostering a connection between the city, landscape, and nature.
"With its rolling green hills and sweeping views, Victoria Park is a stunning setting for this stadium," Mr Coulson said.
Hassell managing principal Lucy O'Driscoll described the project as one they had been "dreaming of for probably [their] entire careers." She highlighted the established partnership with COX as key to delivering the best results.
Ms O'Driscoll echoed the sentiment of legacy, promising the stadium would "not only deliver a world-class experience for athletes and fans but provide Brisbane with a vital piece of sporting infrastructure of true global calibre – a place all Queenslanders will be proud of."
The announcement solidifies the next major step for Brisbane's 2032 Olympic preparations, even as the political and community debate over the Victoria Park location continues to simmer.
