As part of Australia's 2022 FIFA World Cup bid in 2010, an analysis of Townsville's existing Willows Sports Complex suggested a total redevelopment of the site and outlined key issues including the growth rate of the surrounding suburbs and incompatibility of hosting major events in an expanding residential centre, with limited public transport access.

In August 2011, the Bligh Government released a concept design for a new inner-city $185 million sporting stadium in South Townsville.

The concept plan identified a 17.28 hectare parcel of land bounded by Saunders St and owned by QR National, as the ideal site for a new international standard stadium.

[9] A visit from then-Prime Minister Tony Abbott a month later raised hopes as it was revealed that the federal Liberal National Party was investigating options for Commonwealth funding towards the stadium.

With millions watching on a national broadcast and Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull standing on the same stage, Cowboys captain Johnathan Thurston expressed his belief that north Queensland deserved a new stadium.

Three days after the Cowboys' 2015 NRL Grand Final win, it was revealed that club officials would travel to Canberra later that month to lobby for federal funding.

[3] A new pedestrian bridge over Ross Creek from Blackwood Street is the planned connection between the Townsville CBD and the stadium.

[31] A pedestrian bridge over Ross Creek already exists 200 metres south of the project site on Fletcher Street.

The project was praised by Member for Townsville Scott Stewart as being "crucial to ensure the efficient operation of North Queensland Stadium."

On 4 March 2020 it was announced that A-League side Brisbane Roar would play against Premier League club Crystal Palace on 11 July 2020.

[36] In August 2021 it was announced that on Saturday 25 September, the Springboks and All Blacks would play their historic 100th test at North Queensland Stadium.

[37] In 2023 Super Rugby club the Queensland Reds announced they would take two games to the stadium as part of their 140 year anniversary season.