Building Megaprojects in SE Queensland: An Analysis from the Planning, Property and Project Management Perspectives

Megaprojects are becoming part of global urban transformation, creating landmarks, jobs, and essential infrastructure, but they face challenges like stakeholder engagement, cost overruns, delays, and delivery risks. These projects need diverse professionals to ensure value creation, stakeholder satisfaction, and risk management. Southeast Queensland is experiencing significant growth with mega projects such as Queen’s Wharf Brisbane, Waterfront Brisbane, Cross River Rail, and Brisbane Metro. The 2032 Brisbane Olympics will further drive significant sports infrastructure and property developments. Collaboration among city planners, property developers, project managers, and corporate property asset advisors is essential for optimal performance, sustainability, and value creation. The main aim of the paper is to analyse megaprojects from multidisciplinary planning, property, and construction project management perspectives. The research methods include a literature review and a case study of a large megaproject - Queen’s Wharf Brisbane. The study examined planning mechanisms, property development, and project management approaches, highlighting key issues and lessons for Southeast Queensland. From a planning perspective, some important considerations for megaprojects include an understanding of planning legislation and the important role of state government in implementing megaprojects. Megaprojects should be aligned with strategic plans for the region and cities. Likewise, from a property development perspective, the feasibility and cost-benefit of megaprojects should include the analysis of the project's economic impact, providing value creation to the project. From a project management perspective, controlling cost overruns, managing time delays, dealing with conflicts and mitigating risks is crucial. Post-construction, property management and asset management of megaprojects need to consider the sustainability of these developments in the long run. A multidisciplinary lifecycle perspective can indeed provide valuable lessons for planning and developing megaprojects such as the Brisbane Olympics 2032 in Southeast Queensland.