Brisbane deserves a new indoor arena, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese says, but the federal government will have discussions with the Queensland government in “good faith” after it announces its Olympic venues plan today.
“We’ve got funding that we’ve made available for the Arena and then for the smaller venues as well, some 19 that we’ve provided funding for,” Albanese said, speaking on B105 radio this morning.
Concept designs for Brisbane Live, the precursor to Brisbane Arena, released by the state government in 2019.Credit: Queensland government
“I think that we’ll wait and see what’s announced.
“I think one way or the other, Brisbane does need an indoor arena so that you can have acts. I mean, it’s about leaving a legacy post 2032 as well.
“And the fact that Queenslanders I know … want other options besides going up north to where the current (Brisbane) Entertainment Centre is there.”
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The federal government has pledged $2.5 billion for the Brisbane Arena within the northern end of the Roma Street Parklands.
Albanese was asked if he would swim in the Fitzroy River in Rockhampton, following reports Olympic rowing could be moved there, even though it was a flowing body of water.
But he said he understood it was listed “eight out of eight as options”.
“I think Rockhampton’s a fantastic place, and it’s a great river, great to walk along,” he said.
“But I’m not sure that having rowing there, although I’ve got to say, people might break world records.”
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