Brisbane anticipates a hotel room shortage for the 2032 Olympic Games and is evaluating a range of temporary housing options, including berthing cruise ships, urban camping grounds, and ultra-luxury yachts, with the waterfront identified as a potential hub.

Short-stay platforms like Airbnb could enable residents to rent spare rooms or entire homes, potentially boosting the local economy through increased lodging options and consumer spending during the Games.

A fleet of up to 200 superyachts could contribute about $1.8 billion in value to the Games, though each yacht can accommodate a maximum of 12 people and would require additional moorings and coordination with Maritime Safety Queensland.

Investors and operators are considering student accommodation as a temporary solution, with UniLodge proposing regulatory changes to expand housing use during the Games and noting the need to align university schedules to free up space around the event.

A caravan and RV industry advocate points to the lack of established camping infrastructure in Brisbane, suggesting temporary holiday parks or adaptable parks to accommodate attendees and ensure smooth transport access during the Games.

Port of Brisbane executives reference Barcelona’s 1992 Olympic model, where cruise ships hosted large groups of visitors, but current constraints exist since the Brisbane International Cruise Terminal can handle only one vessel at a time, necessitating planning and infrastructure expansion.