Number of Suncorp Stadium concerts set to expand permanently

Queenslanders have made their voices heard on the number of concerts and major events held at Suncorp Stadium each year.

Queenslanders have voiced their support for a permanent increase in the number of concerts and major events at Suncorp Stadium.

Once a sticking point for local residents, the number of concerts allowed in the entertainment mecca was increased from six to 12 on a temporary basis after the coronavirus pandemic, but data taken from a public consultation survey shows an overwhelming majority of respondents in favour of making the increase permanent.

More than 81 per cent of respondents either agreed or strongly agreed that Suncorp Stadium should be permitted to hold up to 12 concerts per calendar year, with three-quarters of those living within the Lang Park Traffic Area also in favour.

The survey also asked respondents whether they agreed with plans to change the definition of major sports event from a crowd of 35,000 to more than 45,000 – with almost 85 per cent of responses in favour.

Under existing regulations, Suncorp Stadium is permitted to host 24 sporting events with more than 35,000 spectators, but with the Broncos regularly topping 40,000 for NRL home games, that quota is in danger of being breached unless the definition is changed.

Pink performs at Suncorp Stadium in February.

People were also asked their opinion on whether concerts at the Gold Coast’s two major stadiums (Carrara’s People First Stadium and Robina’s Cbus Super Stadium) should be allowed to run until 10.30pm instead of the current 10pm curfew, with 77 per cent of respondents in favour.

Tourism and Sport Minister Michael Healy said the state government would now consider the feedback and weigh up potential economic benefits and community impacts before making any decisions about permanent amendments to the caps for major events.

“These world-class stadiums attract world-class performers and events,” he said.

“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.”

Tourism and Events Queensland CEO Patricia O’Callaghan said major events were a significant driver for the economy, and 12 concerts a year at Suncorp Stadium would be a major boost.

“Queensland is the home of blockbuster events, and we are excited to harness the opportunities that will come from increased concerts at Suncorp Stadium,” she said.

Originally published as Number of Suncorp Stadium concerts set to expand permanently