Brisbane is on the cusp of one of the biggest property booms in Australian history, and it all comes down to one event: the 2032 Olympic Games.
While the Olympics themselves last only a few weeks, the economic and infrastructure investment they bring can reshape a city for decades—and savvy investors know this is the time to act.
We only need to look at what happened in Sydney when they were awarded the 2000 Olympics in 1993. Property prices soared between 1993 and 2000, with values rising over 60% in key areas due to new transport, job creation, and international attention. And Brisbane is expected to follow a similar trajectory.
But what does that mean for property investors today? It means now is the window to secure a property in high-growth areas before demand outpaces supply. Let’s break down exactly why Brisbane is set to explode and which suburbs are best positioned for long-term growth.
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The $17 Billion Infrastructure Overhaul – A Game-Changer for Brisbane
One of the biggest drivers of property growth leading up to the Olympics is the sheer scale of infrastructure investment happening across the city. The Queensland Government has committed over $17 billion to upgrade transport networks, build new venues, and improve housing and commercial precincts.
Some of the most significant projects include:
• Brisbane Metro Expansion – Faster transport linking key suburbs
• Cross River Rail – A second river crossing that will open up new development corridors
• New Athletes’ Village at Northshore Hamilton – Transforming this area into a high-demand precinct
• Gabba Redevelopment – Completely upgrading the stadium and surrounding precinct
• M1 and Bruce Highway Upgrades – Improving access between Brisbane, the Gold Coast, and Sunshine Coast
• New Green Bridges – Enhancing walkability and connectivity across the river
Historically, major transport and infrastructure upgrades drive significant property growth, as they make previously less-accessible areas far more desirable. The Olympics have fast-tracked these projects, meaning suburbs along these key transport lines are set to benefit the most.
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The Perfect Storm: Population Growth, Housing Shortage, and Low Supply
Brisbane is experiencing unprecedented levels of interstate migration, with thousands of people relocating from Sydney and Melbourne every month. The city’s relative affordability, lifestyle appeal, and now, its global recognition due to the Olympics, are fuelling demand like never before.
At the same time, Brisbane is in the midst of a severe housing shortage. Construction costs have risen, and new developments are struggling to keep up with demand. This imbalance is pushing prices higher—a trend that is only going to accelerate as the Olympics draw closer.
High demand + limited supply = skyrocketing property values.
Investors who secure properties before the full impact of this housing squeeze is felt are in the best position to reap the rewards.
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Where Are the Best Brisbane Suburbs to Invest Before the Olympics?
With so much happening across the city, some suburbs are better positioned than others to benefit from the Olympic-driven boom. Here are some of the best investment locations leading up to 2032:
Northshore Hamilton & Woolloongabba – At the Heart of Olympic Development
The Athletes’ Village will be built in Northshore Hamilton, one of Brisbane’s fastest-growing waterfront precincts. This will bring new retail, dining, and commercial hubs, making it an in-demand lifestyle area.
Meanwhile, Woolloongabba is undergoing a massive transformation, with the Gabba stadium upgrade, new high-rise developments, and Cross River Rail making it one of the most connected locations in the city.
Albion & Bowen Hills – Inner-City Gentrification in Full Swing
As more people move to Brisbane, inner-city locations with room for high-density living will thrive. Albion and Bowen Hills are prime candidates, with new residential towers, retail precincts, and direct access to the Metro and Cross River Rail.
Brisbane’s Northside – Bridging the Gap to Growth
With the Lutwyche, Kedron, and Chermside areas benefiting from upgraded public transport and better highway connections, these areas are expected to see strong price growth leading up to the Olympics. Chermside, in particular, has been identified as a future satellite city, meaning long-term demand is strong.
The Southside’s Olympic Effect – Coorparoo, Mount Gravatt & Eight Mile Plains
New transport links and the Olympics’ focus on Woolloongabba will spill over into the surrounding Southside suburbs. Coorparoo, Mount Gravatt, and Eight Mile Plains are already highly desirable areas, and improved transport and lifestyle hubs will increase their value dramatically.
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What Investors Can Learn from Sydney’s Olympic Boom
Looking at Sydney’s property market leading up to the 2000 Olympics, the parallels to Brisbane are clear.
• Sydney secured the Olympics in 1993, and property prices surged over 60% by the time the Games were held in 2000.
• Infrastructure investments created new commercial and residential hubs that continued to grow post-Olympics.
• Suburbs close to Olympic venues and major transport upgrades saw the highest appreciation in value.
Brisbane’s growth is expected to mirror this pattern, making the next 3-5 years crucial for property investors.
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The Key Takeaway – The Window of Opportunity is Now
Brisbane’s pre-Olympics property boom is already underway, but the full effect hasn’t been realised yet. Investors who act now before major infrastructure projects are completed will be best positioned for long-term capital growth.
If history has taught us anything, it’s that the years leading up to a global event like the Olympics create the biggest opportunities for property investment.
The smart money is already moving. The question is, will you take action before prices surge further?
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