Noosa Council has called for clarity on parts of the Queensland Government's recently released Bill, to set up a Sunshine Coast Waterways Authority (SCWA), emphasising that a one-size-fits-all approach won't work.
"Council wants to work constructively with the State to get the best outcome for Noosa," Mayor Frank Wilkie said.
"The State Government has given Council and the community only 10 days to understand and respond to its proposed framework for a new waterways authority over Noosa River.
"We support better coordination across the region but it must come with clear roles, a commitment to genuine collaboration and tailored management that reflects Noosa River's unique needs and the views of our community."
Council yesterday endorsed a detailed submission to the state on the SCWA proposal, which outlines a range of concerns with the current State proposal and where Council is seeking greater clarity.
"Without refinements, the Bill risks creating duplication, confusion and decisions that don't suit local conditions or community values," Mayor Wilkie said
"Importantly we need a clearer definition of roles and responsibilities between the proposed Sunshine Coast Waterways Authority (SCWA), councils and existing state agencies.
"Maritime Safety Queensland (MSQ) has been instrumental in implementing important Noosa River management reforms and we're seeking assurance MSQ will remain properly resourced and funded and that its work will continue.
"Our community expects to see waterway‑specific planning that reflects our local needs."
Council's submission calls for:
- Clear definition of roles and responsibilities between SCWA, Council and agencies such as MSQ to prevent duplication in foreshore planning, dredging, environmental management and public access infrastructure.
- Guarantees that local priorities won't be overridden, including requiring council endorsement of SCWA's 10-year strategy and three-year program.
- Clarity on SCWA's jurisdiction, including whether Noosa Waters canals and the Noosa Everglades are included in its remit.
- Defined limits on the infrastructure SCWA can build or manage, recognising the sensitivity of the Noosaville foreshore.
- Clear sediment and sand management responsibilities, avoiding conflicting decisions and potential delays in responses.
- Protection of Council's adopted plans, including the Noosaville Foreshore Master Plan.
- Transparency around Ministerial direction powers, with councils notified of any directions affecting their waterways.
- Local government representation on the SCWA Board.
- Waterway‑specific strategies, rather than one regionwide plan, to ensure place‑based management for systems like the Noosa River.
Mayor Wilkie said Council is committed to working in partnership with the State and notes the same commitment from the Crisafulli government to partner with local government.
"Council calls on this commitment now and seeks changes to the Bill to respond to Council's concerns and recommendations," Mayor Wilkie said.
"We look forward to working constructively with the Queensland Government and the new Sunshine Coast Waterways Authority to ensure the best outcomes for our community and for the unique environmental values of the Noosa River system."
Noosa Mayor Frank Wilkie calls for clarity on the proposed Sunshine Coast Waterway Authority:
Sunshine-Coast-Waterways-Authority-Bill.mp3
