Quantum solutions for Brisbane 2032
Quantum computing is revolutionising how we solve complex problems. By leveraging quantum mechanics, we can achieve breakthroughs in speed, accuracy, and optimisation—transforming transportation planning for events like the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.
The challenge: Managing crowds and accessibility
Brisbane 2032 will bring unprecedented demands on the city’s transport networks, with thousands of spectators, athletes, and officials navigating the city. Two critical challenges stand out:
- Crowd safety: High-density areas such as Southbank, the CBD, and Milton risk dangerous crowd crushes. Lessons from past tragedies like the and disasters highlight the importance of prevention.
- Accessible transport: Servicing over 1,000 wheelchair users daily requires optimising fleets of maxi-taxis and community transport vehicles. Traditional planning methods struggle with unpredictable demands and limited fleet sizes.
Our solution: Harnessing quantum power
Our project applies state-of-the-art quantum computing to tackle these challenges, offering unparalleled computational performance. By developing algorithms based on Quantum Approximate Optimisation Algorithm (QAOA) and Variational Quantum Eigensolver (VQE), we can optimise:
- Pedestrian movements - Predict crowd pinch-points and prevent crush events.
- Fleet scheduling - Maximise trips for wheelchair-accessible vehicles, ensuring seamless travel for athletes and visitors.
This quantum framework will test proof-of-concept solutions using emulators and cloud-based quantum processors, paving the way for future scalability.
Why quantum?
Traditional approaches to logistics modelling require immense computational resources and struggle with dynamic variables like traveller diversity or real-time schedule updates. Quantum computing extends the boundaries of what’s possible by:
- Handling complex, large-scale optimisation problems efficiently.
- Reducing excessive run times while increasing model accuracy.
- Offering resilience to unexpected disruptions.
Impact for Brisbane 2032
By 2032, our project will:
Ensure Crowd Safety
Help planners mitigate pedestrian crush risks in real-time.
Streamline Accessibility
Provide effective, adaptable transport scheduling for wheelchair users.
Foster Innovation
Position Queensland as a leader in quantum transport solutions.
This project supports the ongoing by helping key stakeholders like the and transition their Strategic Transport Models into quantum-enabled systems. The project also advances the .
Beyond the Games
Our vision extends past Brisbane 2032. The wheelchair optimisation framework will be packaged and commercialised, supporting maxi-taxi operators in Queensland for years to come. Moreover, our research will strengthen Queensland’s leadership in the global quantum ecosystem, empowering both academics and industry practitioners.
Funding and project team
With $492,903 in funding from the , this project will contribute to developing Queensland’s quantum capabilities for Brisbane 2032 and beyond. It aims to accelerate innovation, foster research-industry collaboration, and create a legacy for the Games. Griffith University has partnered with to deliver this critical research.
Embedded PhD opportunity
This project creates a unique opportunity to gain quantum computational advantage for Brisbane’s future. Together, we’re building a smarter, safer, and more accessible city—for 2032 and beyond. Are you interested in undertaking a PhD in this space? The Institute offers an excellent PhD program offering peer-support and the transport research team can provide you with industry contacts and access to data and models. We previously won the Griffith Sciences group’s Excellence in a Research Team award and our graduates are gaining positions in leading universities, transport agencies, operators and consultancies.
Please contact the project's Griffith researcher most aligned with your research interests in the first instance. If you are uncertain who might be best placed as a possible supervisor, feel free to contact A/Prof Nagesh Shukla directly.