Citizens’ Panel shaping our 2032 Games legacy

As the Sunshine Coast looks ahead to the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games, another important legacy is unfolding: a new way for Council to listen to our community through the first Sunshine Coast Citizens’ Panel.

At the latest in-person Citizens’ Panel session, a diverse group of community members came together to imagine what a positive Games legacy could look like for the Sunshine Coast long after 2032.

Discussion during the session highlighted the importance of legacy infrastructure that improves everyday life for residents, stronger transport and accessibility, affordable housing, environmental sustainability, local jobs and industry opportunities, facilities for sport and recreation, and initiatives that strengthen community connection.

Mayor Rosanna Natoli said the 2032 Games present a significant opportunity for the region.

“The Games are our golden opportunity to secure funding and momentum for the State and Federal Government delivered infrastructure we need in our growing region,” Mayor Natoli said.

“It’s also our chance to protect the natural places we love, celebrate our community and showcase the Sunshine Coast on the world stage.

“That’s the legacy we’re creating as a region, and the legacy the Citizens’ Panel has helped to shape.”

Created to bring a wide range of community voices to the table, the Citizens’ Panel is helping Council explore some of the big questions facing our growing region.

Their conversations explored opportunities around infrastructure, thriving communities, local jobs, transport, accessibility and our natural environment.

The Citizens’ Panel was asked to play a key role in building on the region’s 10+10+ Vision for the Games, which was developed by Council’s 2032 Sunshine Coast Legacy Plan Community Reference Group (CRG) and launched in 2023.

Panel members considered evidence, shared their lived experience and worked through complex ideas together to help shape Council’s developing Legacy Action Plan and build on the important work of the CRG.

Panel member Kevin was excited to see the enthusiasm among panel members for where the Sunshine Coast was going as a community.

“If we look at the Olympics as something we’re planning for, we’re also looking at what kind of community we’re going to have for the Games and after they’ve gone – what’s the legacy of this once-in-a-generation experience?”

Citizens’ Panel presents new ways of listening

Mayor Natoli said combining community experience with informative briefings and hands-on activities was a powerful way to spark insight.

“Every panel member brings fresh ideas and perspectives, and they have the chance to ask questions and dive deeper,” Mayor Natoli said.

“Through these discussions, participants develop a shared understanding and provide thoughtful, meaningful feedback to Council.”

For panel member Amanda, being part of the session reinforced the value of hearing different perspectives.

“I’ve got this back and forth with people, and we’re all cooperating and allowing each other to have a voice,” Amanda said. 

“I’m really enjoying that, being connected with everyone.

“Giving them that option to voice what they’re saying has educated me and made me think differently about things.”

The 2032 legacy discussion follows earlier Citizens’ Panel sessions focused on Council’s budget and service priorities, and managing bulky waste.

Reports from each session are available on Council’s website.