Executive Summary

The confirmation of venues for the Brisbane 2032 Olympics is set to bring major changes to the city’s commercial property market. On the upside, demand is expected to rise across retail, hospitality, and office spaces, backed by a wave of new infrastructure that will improve access to key commercial zones (NBC News, 2025). Property values are also likely to increase, creating opportunities for both investors and business owners (RealEstate.com.au, 2025).

However, it’s not all upside. Rents could spike, pushing out current tenants who can’t keep up. Some businesses may also be displaced due to new developments, and there’s the risk of a post-Olympics oversupply — especially in the hospitality sector — once the crowds leave (Savills, 2025).

For landlords and tenants alike, the key will be planning ahead. Being strategic now can help maximise the benefits while reducing the risks that come with such a large-scale event.

Introduction

With the venue plan for the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games now finalised, Brisbane has reached a major milestone. This moment caps off nearly four years of work since the city was awarded the Games, and signals the start of intense preparations (AP News, 2025).

“...the government announced that a new stadium will be built at Victoria Park, in Brisbane's inner north” (Vonderen 2025)

For commercial landlords, tenants, investors and developers, the implications are huge. The Australian Olympic Committee has welcomed the clarity this announcement brings, while also acknowledging the scale and complexity of the infrastructure program that lies ahead (Australian Olympic Committee, 2025).

What happens next will shape Brisbane’s commercial property landscape for years to come. This report looks at both the opportunities and the challenges ahead — drawing from past Olympic host cities to offer practical insight.

Positive Impacts on Commercial Property

1. Stronger Demand for Commercial Spaces

The Olympics are expected to bring a wave of economic activity to Brisbane. As tourism booms and spending surges, demand for retail, hospitality, and office space will follow (Wardle Partners, 2025).

Retailers, especially those selling souvenirs or essential goods, can expect a surge in foot traffic (Ray White New Farm, 2025). Restaurants, hotels, and entertainment venues will also be in high demand to serve athletes, tourists, and staff (Torrens University, 2025).

Office demand is set to rise too, driven by the logistical needs of hosting the Games and the expected arrival of new businesses wanting a slice of Brisbane’s growing global presence (CBRE Australia, 2025). With millions in investment and job growth on the horizon, office space absorption could remain strong throughout the decade (Savills, 2025).

2. Infrastructure That Connects the City

Massive upgrades are coming to transport, including Brisbane Metro, Cross River Rail, and improved airport connections (Your Neighbourhood, 2025). These projects are designed to make it easier to move around the city — not just for the Games, but long after they’re over (InDaily Queensland, 2025).

Commercial properties near new or upgraded transport links and Olympic venues — like the Brisbane Stadium, National Aquatic Centre, or Brisbane Arena — are expected to benefit from increased traffic and visibility (ArchitectureAU, 2025).

And with athlete villages planned for Bowen Hills, the Gold Coast, and the Sunshine Coast, we can expect pop-up demand for shops, cafes, and essential services in those areas (Paddle Australia, 2025).

3. Rising Property Values

History shows that host cities often see their property markets soar. Brisbane is tipped to follow that trend, especially in suburbs like Herston, Kelvin Grove, Spring Hill, Bowen Hills, and Woolloongabba (Mortgage Choice, 2025).

Even rents are likely to climb. Office space in areas like the CBD’s North Quarter and Inner South may become pricier as more businesses move in to capitalise on Olympic exposure (Colliers, 2025).

4. New Business and Investment Opportunities

With billions flowing into infrastructure and global attention on the city, Brisbane is in a unique position to attract both local and international investment (API Magazine, 2025). The Queensland Government is also encouraging public-private partnerships, opening more doors for private investors (NBC News, 2025).

Negative Impacts on Commercial Property

1. Rent Hikes Could Push Tenants Out

While landlords might see rising rents as a win, it can be a serious problem for small businesses. If prices jump too high, some tenants could be forced out, especially those with leases nearing expiration or tight budgets (Green Street News, 2025).

There’s also concern about opportunistic rent gouging during the Games. That short-term gain could damage long-term relationships and reputation (Search Party Property, 2025).

2. Tenant Displacement from Redevelopment

With major projects like the Gabba redevelopment moving forward, existing tenants may find themselves in the way of progress (Space Property, 2025). Some landlords might even opt for short-term, high-paying leases targeting Olympic visitors, rather than renewing with long-term tenants (No Boston 2024, 2025).

3. The Risk of Oversupply

Once the Games wrap up, the city could face an oversupply — particularly in hospitality. Temporary operators will likely exit, and the glut of newly built hotels or eateries might outlast the demand (Savills, 2025).

4. Construction-Related Disruption

Before the Olympic buzz kicks in, Brisbane will have to endure years of construction. That means noise, traffic changes, and disruptions to customer access — all of which can hurt nearby businesses, especially in retail and hospitality (NBC News, 2025).

Lessons from Past Olympic Cities

Cities like Barcelona (1992), Sydney (2000), and London (2012) used the Games to boost urban renewal and long-term property values (ResearchGate, 2025). Atlanta turned its Olympic investments into lasting attractions, like Centennial Park (SDNews.com, 2025).

But not every host city has fared well. Athens (2004) was left with abandoned venues. Rio (2016) saw property values drop. In some cases, entire communities were displaced — as in Beijing (2008) and Sochi (2014) (The McGill Daily, 2025).

Final Thoughts and Recommendations

Landlords: Think long-term. Short-term Olympic gains are tempting, but stable tenants and well-maintained properties will win out in the end. Consider mixed-use development and stay in the loop with city planning (Domain, 2025).

Tenants: Get ahead of the curve. Review your lease. Lock in terms if you can. Prepare for disruption and explore Olympic-related business opportunities. Talk with landlords and industry groups to stay informed (NewsCop, 2025).

The Brisbane 2032 Olympics will be a turning point. With smart strategy and forward thinking, the commercial property sector can make the most of it — and keep winning long after the closing ceremony.

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