The Gold Coast has selected a consortium led by AmplifyGC, which includes renowned architects from Cox Architects, to design a new $480 million arena set to play a significant role in the upcoming 2032 Olympic Games. This announcement came on March 16, 2026, as local officials aim to position the city as a prime destination for international entertainment.
Details of the Project
The new arena, planned to accommodate 12,000 spectators, will be constructed at Carey Park in Southport. Following a council vote of 11 to 4 in favor of the proposal, Gold Coast Mayor Tom Tate expressed optimism about the potential economic benefits the venue will bring. He believes that with Live Nation on board, the Gold Coast could attract major international acts that might otherwise choose Brisbane.
“I view that Live Nation is now ‘team Gold Coast,’” Tate said, emphasizing the city’s ambition to host world-class performances. He added that while Brisbane could host additional shows, the Gold Coast wants to secure priority for prominent artists.
The consortium behind the project also includes the Plenary Group, a public-private partnership specialist, as well as the multinational entertainment company Live Nation, construction contractor Built, and architecture firm 3XN. The agreement marks a significant step towards enhancing the region’s infrastructure ahead of the Olympic Games.
Funding and Development Considerations
According to Sergio Calcarao, head of development at Plenary Group, the funding structure for the arena will involve a combination of debt, equity, and contributions from the government. “We will build, deliver, fund, finance, and operate the venue over the agreed concession term,” Calcarao said. He clarified that following the concession period, ownership of both the asset and land would revert back to the council.
The duration of the concession term is still under discussion, with estimates ranging from 30 to 50 years. Calcarao noted that this timeframe must be mutually agreed upon with Invest Gold Coast and the council. “The council and the evaluators are aware of the finite options we’ve proposed,” he added, emphasizing the importance of ensuring a return on investment for all partners involved.
Construction is expected to commence next year, with detailed imagery of AmplifyGC’s proposal not yet released due to probity issues cited by Invest Gold Coast. Additionally, earlier this month, the council unveiled plans for a new Gold Coast Music Hall in Surfers Paradise, featuring a performance space for up to 2,500 attendees.
The new arena represents a pivotal development for the Gold Coast, enhancing its capacity to host significant events and attracting a wider array of entertainment options as the city prepares for the global spotlight of the 2032 Olympics.
