On 22 August 2008, the Premier of Queensland, Anna Bligh, officially launched the Gold Coast's bid to host the Commonwealth Games in 2018.

Ron Clarke, a medallist at both Commonwealth and Olympic Games and present Mayor of the Gold Coast, is expected to take a key role in promoting the bid.

On 7 April 2009, the ABC reported a land exchange deal between the City of Gold Coast and State of Queensland for Carrara Stadium.

[1] On 16 April 2009, Queensland Premier Anna Bligh told reporters that a successful Commonwealth Games bid by the Gold Coast could help the tourist strip win a role in hosting the World Cup.

On 15 March 2010, it was announced that the Queensland Government will provide initial funding of A$11 million for the 2018 Commonwealth Games bid.