In a significant clash of interests, the Yagara Magandjin Aboriginal Corporation (YMAC) has initiated legal proceedings to prevent the construction of a 63,000-seat stadium intended for the 2032 Brisbane Olympics, proposed for the culturally rich grounds of Victoria Park. The project, which is expected to cost around A$3.8 billion ($2.5 billion), will benefit from federal funding, but Indigenous representatives argue that the location holds profound historical and ecological significance.
YMAC, alongside the Save Victoria Park group, is petitioning the federal environment minister to classify Victoria Park as a culturally significant site. YMAC's spokeswoman, Gaja Kerry Charlton, expressed concern for the ancient trees, various artifacts, and crucial ecosystems present in the area, adding that "there may be ancestral remains" yet undiscovered.
A spokesperson for the federal government confirmed receipt of the request for site designation under the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Heritage Protection Act. They stated that the department is currently reviewing the application and will follow proper procedures, including consulting with various stakeholders, including the Queensland government.
Plans for the stadium have ignited political controversy in Queensland. Previous approaches, such as Labor’s former premier Annastacia Palaszczuk's strategy to refurbish the aging Gabba stadium for roughly A$3 billion, faced strong local opposition due to fears of displacement and growing taxpayer concerns over financial burden. When new premier Steven Miles took office amid rising living costs, he sought to adapt existing venues instead, an approach criticized for conveying an image of weakness in the international arena.
However, after losing the election to the Liberal National Party, which campaigned on avoiding new stadium projects, Crisafulli reinstated the plans for Victoria Park and has introduced legislation to bypass planning regulations aimed at accelerating these developments. Opposition to this plan remains strong, as locals advocate for the preservation of the vital green space and the safeguarding of cultural heritage.
Brisbane's Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner indicated significant public endorsement of the stadium project, stating, "Ultimately, this is going to happen." He acknowledged that although there will be attempts to obstruct the project, its advancement appears inevitable. The ongoing tension reflects a deeper struggle over the recognition and respect for Indigenous rights and the importance of cultural preservation within Australia’s urban development framework.
