Sunshine Coast public transport, business case

The department is undertaking a detailed business case for an improved public transport system for the Sunshine Coast.

This work builds on the Sunshine Coast Mass Transit Project undertaken by the Sunshine Coast Council. The Council's Mass Transit Options Analysis (endorsed on 20 October 2021) compared 5 options for an enhanced public transport connection between Maroochydore and the Sunshine Coast University Hospital, with a possible extension to Caloundra.

These options included:

  • bus rapid transit
  • light rail
  • wireless light rail
  • trackless tram
  • quality bus corridor.

The department is now reviewing and using the options analysis report, alongside the outcomes of previous and future community feedback, to refine the options and inform the detailed business case.

The project contributes to implementing the draft Southern Sunshine Coast Public Transport Strategy which sets out the department's vision for a future public transport system for the southern Sunshine Coast area. The project has been identified as a strategic connector to support the coastal corridor.

Benefits

  • Improves network efficiency
  • Increases traffic flow
  • Reduces peak hour congestion
  • Accessibility
  • Reduces travel time
  • Contributes to economy
  • Better active transport

Key features

  • Make the shift towards more sustainable travel choices.
  • Better connect communities.
  • Reduce time spent in travel.
  • Reduce the high dependence on cars.

Funding

The project is jointly funded by the Australian Government, Queensland Government and Sunshine Coast Council.

The Australian Government funding towards this detailed business case forms part of its $22.45 million commitment to the SEQ Growth Business Case Development Program, a program of priority planning works to help inform future investment decisions.

Investment ID 1236359

Total investment
$15 million
Australian Government
$5 million
Queensland Government
$5 million
Local Government
$5 million

Current status

We are forming a community reference group for the project. Find out more about how to express your interest to become a member.

Sustainability

We are committed to the implementation of sustainability principles for the Sunshine Coast public transport project aligned to the TMR Strategic Plan 2019-2023 objectives to be accessible, safe, responsive, efficient and sustainable.