One topic that has been mentioned in some articles and not others is that the shift to a regional, de-centralised event introduced additional complexity and costs that were not adequately modelled.

Insiders say the initial work by government, Ernst & Young and the Commonwealth Games was inadequate with the uniquely decentralised event not having been properly accounted for.
Things like getting enough police and paramedics to the regions, and having enough staff to man the events weren't factored in.

https://www.abc.net.au/news/2023-07-19/commonwealth-games-victoria-daniel-andrews-decision-analysis/102616256