UQ survey reveals Queenslanders supportive of Games but reluctant to attend

A University of Queensland survey of 1000 people found the majority supported Brisbane hosting the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games but few planned to attend the opening or closing ceremonies.

The research project aimed to build a deeper understanding of South-East Queensland residents’ attitudes and support towards the Games, including whether they believed the event would create jobs, help with housing accessibility and affordability or improve the state’s overall appearance.

Professor Brent Ritchie, Dean of UQ’s Business School, said while 70% of survey participants agreed or strongly agreed with hosting the Games, only 28% said they were likely to attend the opening ceremony and 22% the closing ceremony.

“Further research is necessary to determine whether this is related to safety concerns, accessibility, cost or convenience,” Professor Ritchie said.

Support for hosting the Games was also lower among residents living outside of Brisbane as well as residents aged over 50 years.

“Momentum-building activities should be introduced in the lead-up to the Games to engage the community and build excitement, especially for non-Brisbane and older residents,” Professor Ritchie said.

A total of 1074 residents completed the survey in November using professional crowdsourcing company Dynata, with 859 responses used in the final analysis.

The Games were thought of as a “strong promoter” of Queensland as a tourism destination by 82% of those surveyed.

More than 78% believed the event would bring employment opportunities and boost trade for local and small businesses and 64% said it was very likely or likely there would be improvements to Queensland’s appearance due to changes in the lead-up.

There was also a strong belief the Games would increase participation in sport and encourage an active lifestyle, with 72% of those surveyed agreeing it was very likely or likely.

But there was scepticism around whether the event would contribute to housing affordability and accessibility, with 47% saying it was very unlikely or unlikely.

Many respondents were also neutral or sceptical about whether the Games would deliver sustainability benefits and achieve meaningful environmental outcomes.

Professor Ritchie said it was unclear why 74% of those surveyed had indicated they would prefer to watch Olympic events on television instead of attending in person.

This is the first of 6 planned studies that will be released at 2-year intervals leading up to and after the 2032 Games.