25/10/2024
Redirect the money to the people to provide homes and shelter rather than a fleeting sporting spectacle.
I am calling to urgently Cancel the 2032 Olympics in Brisbane
As the former sports minister in Queensland, I’ve always held a deep love for sport. I’ve carried the Olympic flame, and my father before me did the same. The Olympics hold a special place in my heart, but we’re at a critical moment in Queensland’s history. We have families living in tents, under bridges, and in cars. The question we should be asking ourselves is: what matters most to our people right now?
I’ve spoken to countless Queenslanders who share the same sentiment. It’s time to refocus on building essential infrastructure and housing the homeless. We need to cut through the distractions and address the housing crisis head-on. Queensland is facing financial challenges we can no longer ignore. Both major political parties seem desperate to hold on to grand spectacles, these “shows and circuses” that merely serve as a distraction from the real suffering people are experiencing.
Look around. Inflation is out of control. The cost of living, housing prices, rent, food, insurance is skyrocketing. And that’s for those lucky enough to have a home or even a rental. For so many others, the reality is far bleaker.
Now, think about this: the 2032 Olympics is projected to cost over $20 billion. Imagine what we could achieve if that money was redirected toward solving our housing crisis. We could build affordable homes, improve social services, and create sustainable infrastructure that benefits every Queenslander, not just the few who can afford to watch the games or profit from them.
There’s been no meaningful public consultation about whether hosting the Olympics is even what Queenslanders want or need. Let’s give the people a voice. Let’s ask them: what do you value more, a two-week sporting event or a long-term solution to the housing crisis?
We need to be honest about where we are. While the Olympics may bring fleeting moments of national pride, the housing crisis is a persistent wound in our society. We can no longer justify spending billions on temporary glory when so many are without homes.
Let’s choose to invest in our future by building homes, not stadiums. Let’s give Queenslanders a chance to live with dignity and security. The time for distractions is over.
Your mate
Steve
Authorised by Steve Dickson 9 Tyler Rd Mons 4556
