Superyacht Australia has appointed Stephen Joyce as Project Manager of the Brisbane 2032 Marine Project, a long-term programme preparing Queensland’s marinas and marine infrastructure for increased international vessel activity linked to the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.
The Brisbane 2032 Marine Project began in 2022 following an economic impact assessment delivered by AEC Group on the Australian superyacht sector. The study examined future growth and the potential economic impact of the Brisbane Games on the marine and tourism industries.
According to the assessment, the Games could attract more than 200 foreign-flagged superyachts to Australia. The estimate draws on attendance figures from previous Olympic host cities and the projected growth of vessels over 80 metres capable of long-range travel to Australia and the South Pacific.
The anticipated economic output from this activity is around $1.8 billion AUD, including $232 million in maintenance activity, $1.2 billion in tourism-related spending and $64 million in charter spending. The report indicates that over 7,500 full-time jobs could be supported directly and indirectly.
Southeast Queensland is expected to receive the largest share of activity, with nearly 70% of superyacht-related expenditure during the Games period projected to occur in the region. Marina capacity and onshore marine services are central to planning.
Joyce brings more than 30 years of experience in government, private enterprise and not-for-profit sectors, with expertise in strategic project delivery, financial management, business development and organisational leadership. He will attend international marine and tourism events each year to engage with captains, agents and fleet managers.
He will coordinate efforts between government agencies, industry bodies and private operators, with responsibilities also including securing funding, reviewing infrastructure and capabilities, promoting the region internationally and ensuring operational readiness across Queensland waters and Pacific cruising routes.
The programme also addresses workforce planning, environmental and regulatory requirements, marina and mooring availability, logistics, customs support and biosecurity. Alongside this, the Brisbane 2032 Pacific Marine Project extends these initiatives to Pacific nations through infrastructure reviews, training programmes, business development activities and destination marketing in partnership with regional governments.
Joyce said: “I am excited to lead this project with Superyacht Australia, positioning Queensland and the Pacific as a global superyacht destination. This initiative will drive opportunities across multiple industries, and I look forward to working with governments, businesses and communities to realise its economic potential.”
Superyacht Australia CEO David Good commented: “The 2032 Olympics presents the greatest opportunity to grow the Superyacht industry in the South Pacific during our lifetime. Stephen’s expertise in strategic planning, industry development and engagement makes him an exceptional choice to lead this transformative initiative that will have long-lasting benefits for the entire region.”
