The department undertook a detailed business case for an improved public transport system for the Sunshine Coast.
This work built on the Sunshine Coast Mass Transit Project undertaken by the Sunshine Coast Council. The Council's Mass Transit Options Analysis (endorsed 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:
In line with Infrastructure Australia guidelines, the department undertook a detailed analysis of these options and assessed each against a set of criteria including:
In late 2023, ‘bus rapid transit’ was identified as the preferred vehicle option. This mode preference means rubber-tyred vehicles would operate on a dedicated ‘right-of-way’ corridor that provides an exclusive separated route from other road traffic for the sole use of public transport.
Bus rapid transit provides a sustainable, accessible, and comfortable travel alternative that will meet forecast demand for public transport in the region well into the future. It will also help address a desire for greater flexibility and potentially unlock opportunities to service destinations outside the current project area.
The Sunshine Coast Public Transport project and The Wave are designed to complement each other as no single service or corridor can meet the needs of all customers. Together, these public transport corridors will cater to different travel requirements, providing a comprehensive travel solution that aligns with the Southern Sunshine Coast Public Transport Strategy.
The project was 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 (Queensland Transport and Roads Investment Program 2024-25 to 2027-28)
Community engagement and consultation on the project was undertaken throughout 2023.
There is no further funding to progress the project to design or construction.
We are committed to the implementation of sustainability principles for the Sunshine Coast public transport project aligned to the TMR Strategic Plan 2023–2027 objectives to be accessible, safe, responsive, efficient, and sustainable.
Last updated: 16 January 2026
We’re directly connecting the eastern communities of the Sunshine Coast to South East Queensland’s passenger rail network, making it easier to travel locally, and to and from the Sunshine Coast.
The Wave Stage 3 (Metro) will improve travel across the Sunshine Coast by delivering a high-capacity, high-frequency service from Birtinya to the Sunshine Coast Airport.
