Survey finds public backing for permanent increase in Suncorp Stadium concerts

The Queensland Government has advised of the results of public consultation on a permanent rise of up to 12 concerts per year at Brisbane’s Suncorp Stadium - with more than 81% of respondents agreeing with the increase.

Released today by Queensland Minister for Tourism and Sport, Michael Healy, the positive feedback included more than 75% of respondents who live within the Lang Park Traffic Area agreeing or strongly agreeing.

Conducted from 16th February to 12th March this year, the public consultation also saw the community being asked to provide feedback on changing the definition of a 'major sport event' from a crowd size of greater than 35,000 to greater than 45,000.

This was significant as the Stadium currently has a cap on major sport events of 24 per year.

More than 84% of all respondents either agreed or strongly agreed with this increase.

Consultation was similarly held on proposed changes to concert regulations for the Gold Coast's People First Stadium (formally Heritage Bank Stadium) and Cbus Super Stadium.

More than 77% of responses favoured a 10.30pm curfew for concert performances at People First Stadium and Cbus Super Stadium consistent with the curfew for Suncorp Stadium in Brisbane.

The majority, more than 85%, agreed or strongly agreed that People First Stadium should be permitted to host concerts until 10.30pm instead of 10pm.

More than 83% of all respondents agreed or strongly agreed that Cbus Super Stadium should be permitted to hold concerts until 10.30pm - 80.6% of those live either in or within the vicinity of the stadium's controlled traffic area.

Welcoming the findings, Minister Healy stated "I would like to thank everyone who took the time to have their say on proposed changes to legislation surrounding events at Suncorp Stadium, People First Stadium and Cbus Super Stadium.

"These world-class stadia attract world-class performers and events.

"They play a vitally important role in Queensland's sporting and cultural landscape, as well as growing tourism, so it's important that we appropriately maximise their potential.

"The government will now consider all of the feedback and weigh up potential economic benefits as well as community impact, before making any decisions about possible legislative amendments."

Suncorp Stadium General Manager, Alan Graham also welcomed the result, adding “the community has voted - Suncorp Stadium with its intimate seating and accessibility is the city's favourite for fans to savour major concerts and premium sporting events.

"We appreciate the support and cooperation of our locals when big events happen and will continue to apply measures to minimise any impact on our neighbours."

The current cap was temporarily lifted from up to six concerts to up to 12 concerts per calendar year for 2023 and 2024, to capitalise on post-COVID 19 enthusiasm from concert promoters.

To review the results of the public consultation, visit www.dts.qld.gov.au/sport/sport-initiatives/proposed-regulation-changes-gold-coast-stadiums and www.dts.qld.gov.au/sport/sport-initiatives/proposed-regulation-changes-suncorp-stadium

Images: Suncorp Stadium (credit: Stadiums Queensland) and Suncorp Stadium General Manager Alan Graham (below).