The owners of the $300 million, 51.3-hectare facility are seeking “reputable businesses and groups with experience and capability in manager exemplar entertainment, hospitality, events, and track facilities”, the venue set to become “home to iconic automotive brands and a diverse range of industries including retail, hospitality, entertainment, innovation and education” when it opens in quarter-three of 2022.

Located next to the International Terminal at Brisbane Airport, the BNE Auto Mall features its own 2.4km performance track designed by Australian motorsport legend Mark Skaife and motorsport circuit designers iEDM. 

BAC says it is looking for a Track and Event Operator who will manage and maintain the performance track – which includes a four-wheel drive track and skid pan – while also developing the precinct into “an events and experience destination”. 

The project is the first of its kind in Australia and has the potential for 24-hour operation seven days a week.

According to BAC, the facility will eventually host a range of driver experiences including vehicle test drives, automotive branded events including new vehicle launches and media events, corporate and marketing functions, automotive research and development, as well as education and training events.

“Opening in 2024, BNE Auto Mall is the largest, most visionary, and eagerly anticipated mixed-use development of its kind in Australia, and it will be a game-changer when it comes to the way in which people buy and experience motor vehicles,” Brisbane Airport Corporation CEO Gert-Jan de Graaaf said.

“While aviation is our primary purpose, we have always strongly believed that Brisbane Airport is a destination within itself and so much more than just an airport.

“This landmark automotive precinct is proof of that, as it will provide exponential benefits for Brisbane and for Queensland well into the future. 

“I have no doubts that the expansive scope of this Expression of Interest will generate excitement and encourage innovative thinking that will help shape this unique, world-class automotive destination.”

The EOI will close on Friday 28 January 2022 with the Request for Proposal stage to commence on Wednesday 2 February 2022.

The BNE Auto Mall is part of a larger $3.9 billion investment in Brisbane Airport (BNE) that will allow the facility to cater for an expected doubling of passenger numbers to around 51.5 million by 2040. 

Mr de Graff said the facility is part of a master plan which will form an ongoing contribution to the local, state, and national economy over the coming decades. 

An economic study conducted for the master plan found that Brisbane Airport would contribute an estimated $8.7 billion to the Australian economy and provide around 46,000 full time jobs by 2040/41.

By Matt Brogan