Gold Coast Council Convenes Special Session as Major Infrastructure Projects Move Forward

Legislative Momentum at Bundall Chambers

City of Gold Coast leaders are gathering today, Thursday, 26 March 2026, for a Special Council Meeting (SCM) at the Civic Chamber in Bundall. This high-level session follows a week of intensive committee activity focused on the city’s long-term growth and its preparation for the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games. The meeting serves as a critical junction for ratifying infrastructure plans and financial policies discussed in previous standing committee sessions.

Advancing the Gold Coast Arena

One of the primary focuses of today’s legislative activity is the progression of the Gold Coast Arena project. Following the recent announcement of the AmplifyGC consortium—featuring industry heavyweights such as Plenary Group, Live Nation, and Built—as the shortlisted proponent, the council is moving into the next phase of development. The proposed 12,000-seat indoor arena, slated for Carey Park in Southport, is envisioned as a central legacy venue for the 2032 Games.

Councillors are expected to address the transaction details necessary to keep the project on track for its targeted 2030 delivery. Mayor Tom Tate has emphasized that the international interest in this arena reflects the Gold Coast’s rising status as a premier global destination for both the creative industries and major sporting events.

Revenue Policy and Sustainability

In addition to major infrastructure, the council is reviewing the 2026-27 Revenue Policy. This draft policy is vital for managing the city’s budgetary health as it manages rapid population expansion. Earlier this week, the Transport and Infrastructure Committee and the Water, Waste, and Energy Committee met to finalize recommendations regarding utility management and transit networks. These recommendations are slated for final consideration today, with a focus on:

• Integrated Transport Solutions: Ensuring better connectivity between residential growth corridors and emerging cultural hubs, including the new Gold Coast Music Hall in Surfers Paradise.
• Renewable Energy and Utility Resilience: Optimizing water and waste services to meet environmental standards while preparing for the demands of peak tourism seasons.

The "Aussies" and Regional Spotlight

While political deliberations occur at the chambers, the Gold Coast is also marking a significant community milestone today with the start of the Australian Surf Life Saving Championships, colloquially known as "The Aussies." Mayor Tate has officially welcomed thousands of athletes to the city, highlighting the event as a testament to the region's operational readiness for large-scale international competitions.

Today’s proceedings are available for public viewing via the council's official live-stream channel. The decisions made during this session will set the stage for the highly anticipated Special Budget meeting scheduled for March 30.