Gold Coast Mayor Tom Tate has confirmed he will charge ratepayers for flights to Italy to participate as a torchbearer in the 2026 Winter Olympic Games, marking his third European business trip in two years.
Cr Tate said while the final itinerary for the games, which will be held across northern Italy in February, has not yet been finalised, the public cost will not exceed $20,000.
“It is my intention to travel to the Winter Olympics where I am honoured, on behalf of the city, to be involved in the torch relay,” Cr Tate said. “When my itinerary is finalised, I will be happy to provide more details.”
The mayor also noted that he plans to use the trip to advance discussions with sporting bodies about hosting events on the Gold Coast. Asked about travel arrangements, the 66-year-old did not rule out flying business class, quipping:
“What do you want me to do? Walk off like an old person that I am?”
Accommodation will reportedly be provided by the Brisbane Olympics Committee Organising Committee.
Mayor’s International Travel Costs
Council records show that in the past financial year, Cr Tate billed ratepayers $103,957 for international travel. This includes a three-week trade mission to the Paris Olympics, costing $37,756, and a September trip to Europe for Paralympic Games business meetings at $33,598. He also visited Singapore for 12 days in November last year, promoting the Gold Coast at a cost of $12,998.
City CEO Tim Baker accompanied the Paris trip, charging $21,478, while only one other councillor, Glenn Tozer, billed $18,414 for a 12-day overseas trip to attract sports training camps.
Cr Tate’s travel history has previously drawn criticism. In 2022, one overseas trip cost ratepayers at least $70,000, followed by a first-class flight to the UK later that year.
Mayor Re-Elected Amid Controversy
Cr Tate was re-elected for a fourth term in March 2024, securing 51.82% of first-preference votes. A city spokesperson stated that all staff travel records are reviewed by the Governance, Administration, and Finance Committee every six months and included in the annual report.
