RACQ infrastructure wishlist ahead for Brisbane to reach Olympic gold

RACQ Head of Public Policy Susan Furze said significant road, rail and bus upgrades would need to be prioritised to accommodate the crowds.

“South east Queenslanders need reliable, affordable and accessible public transport regardless of the Olympics but improving options to and from Ipswich and the Gold and Sunshine Coasts will be critical in transporting spectators and athletes,” Ms Furze said.

“The continued delivery of Cross River Rail and Brisbane Metro is paramount but the full Beerburrum to Nambour rail line upgrade and the Sunshine Coast Mass Transit upgrades to Maroochydore will secure effective rail services north to the Sunshine Coast.

“Completing Gold Coast Light Rail to Coolangatta Airport, upgrading the Kuraby to Beenleigh rail line and delivering capacity improvements to the Gold Coast Line to ensure high frequency, reliable services across the Gold Coast rail network is also needed.” 

Ms Furze also encouraged leaders to deliver the road improvements necessary to battle congestion. 

“The Centenary and Ipswich Motorways are already struggling, but significant upgrades will not only help future proof fast-growing regions but will support travel throughout the Olympic event,” she said. 

“Bruce Highway upgrades between Brisbane and Caloundra, investment in a multi-modal North West Transport Corridor, continued improvements to the Pacific Motorway and the delivery of the Coomera Connector are also vital priorities so we can present the best version of south east Queensland to the world.

“These projects, as well as improved active transport options including Brisbane’s Green Bridges, are necessary to leave an Olympic legacy for the region and support Queenslanders long after the 2031 closing ceremony.”