Insights from young technical leaders in the lead-up to Brisbane 2032
At a glance
The Brisbane 2032 Games represent a once-in-a-career opportunity for young STEM students and professionals to shape the future and contribute to a Games legacy framed by innovation. To better understand the potential of their contribution, GHD commissioned the Queensland University of Technology (QUT) to conduct a study titled ‘Next Generation Legacy Research’, a study which is a first of its kind.
Next Generation Legacy Research
Next Generation perspectives on Games legacy
The 2024 research captures the voices of young technical leaders, their levels of optimism and their ambition to drive legacy and adoption of technology, ultimately contributing to thriving communities – in the lead up to the Games.
This independent study surveyed over 250 technical leaders in Queensland on their confidence in the Games achieving sustainability and social inclusion goals, and their views on the barriers and enablers for a successful Brisbane 2032 Games legacy. The research involved a 20-minute online survey and two roundtable discussions that engaged young technical leaders aged 18 to 34, ranging from QUT students to young professionals across STEM fields.
Key findings
Mobility matters: 68% of participants believe mobility should be the main focus for mega event legacies. This insight underscores the importance of efficient and sustainable transportation systems that can support not only the 2032 Games but more critically, the long-term infrastructure needs of South East Queensland. Mobility and sustainability emerged as top priorities among the participants. The emphasis on mobility indicates a pressing demand for innovative transportation solutions that can facilitate the efficient movement of people and goods at Games time and importantly, leave a lasting legacy well beyond the Olympic and Paralympic Games.
Sustainability first: 60% of participants prioritise sustainability as a crucial element for major events. This finding highlights the growing awareness and commitment among young technical leaders to ensure that the Brisbane 2032 Games leave a positive environmental impact.
It's clear from this research that many young technical leaders across Queensland are at the forefront of developing and implementing these solutions. As such, their expertise in areas such as urban planning, engineering, and environmental science will be crucial in designing systems that are both efficient and eco-friendly. By leveraging their knowledge and creativity, Brisbane can create a legacy of sustainable mobility that serves as a model for other cities.
Addressing social impact: Housing and rental issues are identified as major concerns in the 2024 study, with 93.5% considering it a critical social issue in Brisbane. Young technical leaders in the study’s roundtables expressed mixed views on housing and preserving a sense of place. They noted that while the 2032 Games could enhance career opportunities, the event might also lead to an increase in housing market entry costs across Brisbane and host regions.
Again, young technical leaders can play a key role in developing solutions that promote affordable housing and equitable access to resources. Their innovative approaches to urban development and community planning can help create inclusive neighbourhoods that benefit all residents. By prioritising social impact, the Brisbane 2032 Games can set a standard for future events that prioritises the well-being of local communities.
Fostering inclusivity: While only 54% of participants feel that Brisbane is an inclusive place to reside, 75% believe the 2032 Games can enhance inclusiveness. This optimism reflects the potential for the Games to bring diverse communities together and promote social cohesion.
Our research team believes that young technical leaders are well-positioned to drive this change. Their diverse backgrounds and perspectives enable them to develop solutions that are inclusive and representative of the broader community. By engaging with various stakeholders and promoting collaboration, they can help ensure that the Games leave a positive social legacy.
Next steps: further research
Working closely with respective industry associations and with the continued support of QUT, the research aims to delve deeper into the perspectives and contributions of young technical leaders. The upcoming generation of technical leaders will not only contribute to the successful execution of the Games but will also be direct beneficiaries, experiencing the long-term impacts of their endeavours.
The Brisbane 2032 Games provide an opportunity to establish a legacy that benefits future generations. By tracking young technical leaders’ optimism, ambitions to drive legacy, challenges and adoption of technology, we can help shape a future in which communities can truly thrive.
For young technical people, the Games is a unique career opportunity. They are the ones who will face more of the consequences of decisions being made today. This is why it’s important that when we talk about the legacy of the Games, we include young people in decision-making.
This research is not commissioned, sponsored, or approved by the Brisbane Organising Committee for the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games ('Brisbane 2032'), the Australian Olympic Committee, Paralympics Australia, the International Olympic Committee, or the International Paralympic Committee. GHD is not associated or affiliated with Brisbane 2032, the Australian Olympic Committee, Paralympics Australia, or the Olympic and Paralympic Games Brisbane 2032.