Weekend Gold Coast Bulletin

Aleisha Dawson

New research by iBuyNew and Hotspotting has revealed 22 property hotspots across Southeast Queensland poised for rapid growth ahead of the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games. On the Gold Coast, suburbs such as Southport, Labrador, Benowa, Ashmore, Molendinar, and Arundel are set to benefit from major infrastructure projects, including the Gold Coast Arena in Carey Park and the Athletes Village in Benowa. Brisbane suburbs like Bowen Hills, Spring Hill, Newstead, Woolloongabba, and East Brisbane are expected to see strong capital growth thanks to their proximity to venues like Brisbane Stadium, the National Aquatic Centre, and key urban renewal projects. The Sunshine Coast will also experience an uplift, with areas such as Maroochydore, Kawana, and Bokarina gaining from upgraded stadiums and cycling facilities.

According to iBuyNew CEO Daniel Peterson, Southeast Queensland is already attracting strong interest from buyers and investors, boosted by $7.1 billion in Olympic venue upgrades and billions more in transport improvements. “The three fundamentals – strong infrastructure investment, population growth, and rental demand – are aligning perfectly,” Peterson said, adding that smart buyers will target growth corridors near transport links and lifestyle hubs for the best long-term returns. Hotspotting director Terry Ryder noted that since Brisbane was named host city over four years ago, property prices have surged significantly, with median house prices in Brisbane, the Gold Coast, and the Sunshine Coast climbing from below $750,000 to over $1 million, while unit prices have risen by up to 68%.

History shows that Olympic host cities often enjoy substantial property gains. Barcelona saw prices soar by 130% before the 1992 Games, and Sydney experienced an 88% rise in the five years leading up to the 2000 Olympics. With Southeast Queensland in the midst of a major infrastructure boom, experts predict the most significant gains will come in suburbs earmarked for urban renewal and new facilities. For investors, the window of opportunity lies in securing property near key venues and transport hubs before the Games bring global attention—and competition—to the market.