Brisbane Roar Football Club is assessing a hybrid stadium model that retains its Milton base at Suncorp Stadium while exploring smaller nearby venues to address falling attendance and improve match-day viability.
Club Responds to Ongoing Attendance and Performance Challenges
Brisbane Roar is navigating significant changes ahead of the 2025–26 A-League campaign. This includes a renewed focus on its presence in Milton. The club intends to keep Suncorp Stadium as its main base, while also exploring the use of a smaller venue to improve match-day atmosphere and operational sustainability.
Recent seasons have seen Brisbane Roar struggle to draw crowds. Current attendance figures average just 5,463 at the 52,500-seat Suncorp Stadium. This ongoing issue has added financial strain despite continued backing from the Indonesian ownership group, the Bakrie Group.
Leadership Shift and Late-Season Momentum
The appointment of Michael Valkanis as head coach marks a major shift in club leadership. Following a string of underwhelming performances, the squad has been overhauled. However, recent results have shown signs of recovery. In their last five matches, Brisbane Roar recorded three wins, one draw, and a single loss, including a 2–1 victory against Central Coast Mariners.
Club leadership views access to smaller venues as necessary alongside its continued presence at Suncorp. The move responds to current financial pressures and addresses the visual impact of low attendance in a large venue.
Secondary Venues Under Review
Brisbane Roar is evaluating Perry Park and Ballymore as potential complementary venues to its Milton base. While not located in Milton, both sites are nearby and seen as viable for select matches. Perry Park has a 5,000 capacity, and Ballymore is primarily used by Queensland Rugby Union. Access to either would allow the club to operate in purpose-fit environments while maintaining Suncorp as its traditional home.
Club leadership has emphasised that any transition would be gradual. Suncorp remains a central part of their future. The goal is to re-establish a consistent fan experience while ensuring financial efficiency.
Club Vision and Development Focus
The club’s current strategy supports its goal of becoming a respected and high-performing football organisation across Australia and the Asia-Pacific. This includes developing talent through grassroots initiatives such as the Roar Active Program and Brisbane Roar Academy. These remain key priorities for the club’s community engagement efforts in Queensland.
Published 12-May-2025
