Queensland is projected to need tens of thousands of additional construction workers as infrastructure projects for the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games ramp up.

Building experts express concerns over the pressure this demand will place on the already strained construction sector.

This week, the Queensland government, led by the Liberal National Party (LNP), unveiled plans for key venues in preparation for the Games, following a comprehensive 100-day review.

Among these plans is the construction of a new 63,000-seat stadium at Brisbane's Victoria Park, alongside a new national aquatic centre located in Spring Hill.

Premier David Crisafulli assured the public that all venues will be completed on schedule and within the predetermined budget of $7.1 billion.

"There's no way with the eyes of the world on us, we could have a job that's not completed," Crisafulli stated during a press conference.

The construction industry is currently facing significant challenges, particularly in light of a housing crisis and the need for additional infrastructure investment in hospitals, schools, transportation, and renewable energy, on top of Olympic-related projects.

Paul Bidwell, CEO of Master Builders Queensland, emphasized the urgency, stating the Olympic infrastructure is set to exacerbate existing pressures.

Bidwell pointed out that Queensland has about 285,000 construction workers currently employed across various sectors.

He forecasts a need for an additional 30,000 to 40,000 construction workers each year leading up to 2032 to adequately address all ongoing projects.

Jon Davies, CEO of the Australian Constructors Association, echoed these concerns, highlighting that the primary challenge in delivering the Games will be sourcing adequate labor.

In response, Stephen Conry, chair of the Games Independent Infrastructure and Coordination Authority, noted that there are indications of labor availability from other parts of Australia, although he acknowledged that the labor market in Queensland remains tight due to the extensive infrastructure investments linked to the Brisbane 2032 Games.

Industry leaders have raised concerns about a potential arms race between different states to attract construction workers, warning that this could escalate wage costs at a time when controlling expenses is critical.

Davies stated that increased productivity will be necessary to manage the workload effectively.

The Queensland government's proposal for the Games includes a total of 37 venues, which encompasses seven newly constructed venues, ten existing venues slated for upgrades, and 20 temporary venues.

The finalized design and site selection for the Victoria Park stadium are still under review, with additional technical assessments required.

A community group opposing the current plans has emerged, indicating local dissent regarding the development.

The comprehensive report from the government recommends that preliminary site works commence no later than mid-2027, with the completion of construction expected by mid-2031. Additionally, operational tests for the venues must occur prior to the main event.

Premier Crisafulli emphasized the stringent timelines, noting that a minimum of six months will be required for thorough testing and certification of the venues and their surrounding infrastructure.

He reiterated the commitment to timely delivery, stating, "It has to be open," in reference to the urgency of the stadium’s completion.

As the construction timeline for the 2032 Games advances, the state government aims to enhance productivity measures on building sites, while assuring the public that responsible ministers will be held accountable for the timely execution of these ambitious infrastructure projects.