March 16, 2026 — The architecture firm behind Brisbane’s Olympic stadium has joined forces to develop a new venue on the Gold Coast, positioned for potential use in the 2032 Games.
AmplifyGC Wins Bid for 12,000-Seat Arena
AmplifyGC, led by Cox Architects—the designers of Brisbane Stadium—emerged as the selected consortium to build the Gold Coast Arena. The announcement came Monday following a council vote of 11 in favor and four against.
The group also includes Plenary Group for public-private partnerships, Live Nation for entertainment and tours, Built as the construction contractor, and Danish firm 3XN for architecture. Shortlisted last week, AmplifyGC will deliver the 12,000-seat facility at Southport’s Carey Park.
Mayor Eyes Boost for International Concerts
Gold Coast Mayor Tom Tate anticipates the partnership, particularly with Live Nation, will draw more global acts to the city over Brisbane. “Live Nation is now ‘team Gold Coast,’ and with acts touring Sydney and Melbourne, I want them to land here first,” Tate stated.
He added, “If acts want extra dates, Brisbane can have them, but we aim for first pick on world-class performers.”
Funding and Operations Details
Sergio Calcarao, head of development at Plenary Group, outlined the $480 million project’s funding through debt, equity, and government support. “We will build, fund, finance, and operate the venue for the concession term, after which the asset and land return to the council,” Calcarao explained.
The Carey Park site will be under consortium control during the term, negotiated with Invest Gold Coast and the council. Options range from 30 to 50 years, ensuring a return on investment for partners. Construction begins next year.
Updated proposal images remain unavailable due to probity concerns from Invest Gold Coast.
Related Developments
Earlier this month, plans surfaced for a Gold Coast Music Hall in Surfers Paradise, featuring a 2,500-capacity indoor space at the existing transit centre site.
