Small and medium businesses on the Gold Coast are being encouraged to prepare for procurement opportunities linked to the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games, as the Queensland Government begins outlining how companies can take part in delivering the event.
Government representatives, officials from the Brisbane 2032 organising committee and the City of Gold Coast met with local businesses at the Gold Coast 2032 Meet the Buyer Breakfast, where companies were given an early look at the procurement process expected to support the Games.
The session focused on how goods and services will be sourced over the coming years as planning for the international sporting event moves ahead. Organisers outlined the types of work likely to be required, ranging from temporary infrastructure and transport services to catering, signage, fencing, uniforms and merchandise.
Officials said the procurement framework aims to provide value for Queensland while ensuring local businesses have opportunities to participate in delivering the Games.
The Queensland Government says preparations are being guided by its 2032 Delivery Plan, which outlines how venues, infrastructure and services will be organised ahead of the event. The plan identifies the Gold Coast as one of the key locations for competitions and related activities.
Several venues in the region are expected to host Olympic and Paralympic events. Plans include the development of a new arena and upgrades to the Gold Coast hockey centre, projects that the City of Gold Coast is expected to fund and manage. Existing facilities such as the Gold Coast Convention and Exhibition Centre are also set to play a role.
The government argues that involving local businesses in the procurement process can help spread economic benefits across the state. Major sporting events often involve years of construction, planning and operational work, creating demand for a wide range of services.
Some analysts note that host cities often see increased business activity linked to tourism, infrastructure investment and event logistics in the lead up to global competitions. Others point out that the scale of economic benefits can vary depending on planning decisions, construction costs and long term use of venues.
Queensland’s approach has emphasised participation from local suppliers and service providers wherever possible. Officials say the procurement process will outline how companies can register interest, understand tender requirements and prepare for future contracts.
Minister for Sport and Racing and Minister for the Olympic and Paralympic Games Tim Mander said the event presents an opportunity for businesses across the region.
“We want this to be a Games for Queenslanders and by Queenslanders,” he said.
Mander said the government wants local companies to share in the work required to organise the event.
“It’s incredibly important that local businesses share in the benefits of hosting the Games by helping deliver them,” he said.
Minister for Customer Services and Open Data and Minister for Small and Family Business Steve Minnikin said the Gold Coast business community has a strong track record in delivering services for major events.
“The Gold Coast business community contains exceptional innovators and manufacturers capable of playing an important role in delivering the Games,” he said.
Minnikin said the region will attract international attention once the Games begin.
“In 2032 the Gold Coast region will be on display to the world,” he said. “Alongside its beaches and city skyline, the capability and creativity of local businesses will also be visible.”
Local representatives have also urged companies to consider participating early in the planning process. Member for Southport Rob Molhoek said businesses interested in Olympic related work should begin preparing for procurement opportunities.
“I strongly encourage businesses to take advantage of this opportunity and help deliver a successful Games for Queensland,” he said.
Molhoek said the Gold Coast has previously hosted major international events and developed experience in organising large scale sporting activities.
Industry observers say early engagement can help smaller companies understand how large procurement systems work. Contracts connected to international sporting events often involve detailed compliance requirements and coordination between multiple agencies.
Procurement for the 2032 Games will take place over several years, covering the planning, construction and operational phases of the event. Some work will begin well before the opening ceremony, particularly where infrastructure or venue upgrades are required.
Temporary structures, transport coordination and accommodation services are typically arranged closer to the event itself. Event organisers also require suppliers for branding, merchandise, cleaning services and food provision during the competition period.
Business groups in Queensland have welcomed opportunities for local companies, though some emphasise the need for clear communication about tender processes so smaller firms can compete effectively.
Preparation for the Games continues as governments, councils and organisers coordinate venue development and infrastructure planning. With seven years remaining before the event, officials say the focus is gradually shifting from planning toward implementation.
For many businesses on the Gold Coast, the upcoming procurement process may represent a chance to secure work connected to one of the largest sporting events ever held in Australia. Organisers say companies interested in participating should monitor official procurement announcements as further details are released in the lead up to 2032.
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