Australia: Disruptions due to sporting event on Gold Coast April 4-15

Event

The 2018 Commonwealth Games will take place on the Gold Coast (Queensland state) from April 4 through April 15. There will be a range of temporary road closures and security measures due to road-based events and associated deviations. Road closures will be in effect on the Gold Coast as well as in Beenleigh, Brisbane, Cairns, and Townsville. Parking restrictions will also be implemented, as well as local access permits for certain areas. Significant congestion is expected along the M1, the main highway between the Gold Coast and Brisbane, during the Games.

Context

The Commonwealth Games have been organized by the Commonwealth Games Federation (CGF) since 1930, when the first “British Empire Games” were held in Hamilton, Canada. The Commonwealth Games are a unique multi-sport event that held once every four years and is often referred to as the “Friendly Games.” The 2018 edition will be the fifth time Australia has hosted the Games.

Advice

Individuals present in the affected areas during the aforementioned period are advised to keep informed of road closures and allow more time for their local journeys. For more information on closures, diversions, and impacts on traffic at large, please visit Queensland government’s website.