Coates, in an editorial published in The Courier-Mail newspaper in Brisbane, has claimed Hanson does not understand the new funding model adopted by the International Olympic Committee (IOC). "They are not just changes, more a revolution in the way the Olympic Games are run," he writes. "Known as 'The New Norm', these changes have made Games much cheaper to run, while delivering benefits that can last 20 years and beyond." The IOC are expected to contribute up to $2.5 billion (£1.9 billion/€2.3 billion) towards hosting the Games in 2032. "When you add revenue from national sponsors and ticket sales the operating costs of the Games themselves will not require any contribution from taxpayers or ratepayers," Coates, a senior member of the IOC who helped draw up the new strategy, writes. "These game-changing benefits weren't available to previous Olympic hosts.
A feasibility study commissioned by Queensland Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk has put the cost of staging the Games at AUD$5.3 billion (£2.8 billion/$3.7 billion/€3.3 billion).
The Games are seen as potentially being a major catalyst for helping upgrade Queensland's infrastructure system, which is currently struggling to cope with the number of motorists and passengers on public transport.
"Sport will be supercharged.
"Today's 10-year-old child will be an optimistic 22-year-old in 2032, with real job opportunities, actively involved in sport and living in a thriving state with a vibrant economy."
Hanson responded to Coates' editorial by urging people to sign a petition demanding time is set aside in Parliament to "debate the irresponsible Brisbane Olympics bid because we all know Queensland can't afford it!"
https://www.couriermail.com.au/news/opinion/olympics-2032-queensland-games-could-actually-produce-a-surplus/news-story/4f2af670058c2263f7c0199a499744f4