- The Crisafulli Government has delivered on its election commitment to establish the Sunshine Coast Waterways Authority.
- The Sunshine Coast Waterways Authority (SCWA) will commence operations from 1 July 2026, taking responsibility for maintaining local waterways and delivering and upgrading key marine infrastructure.
- The Crisafulli Government is delivering a plan for Queensland's future after a decade of decline under Labor.
The Crisafulli Government has passed the Sunshine Coast Waterways Authority Bill, delivering on a key election commitment to establish a dedicated authority focused on the long-term management and sustainability of the Sunshine Coast's iconic waterways.
The Sunshine Coast Waterways Authority (SCWA) will formally commence operations on 1 July 2026, delivering a stronger local focus on waterways management, navigation access, sustainable waterways, and long-term planning for the region.
The Sunshine Coast Waterways Authority will oversee waterways from Pumicestone Passage to the Noosa River and Noosa Lakes, including the Mooloolah River and the Mooloolaba State Boat Harbour.
It will be responsible for long-term marine planning, dredging and maintenance of declared channels, and the delivery and upkeep of essential marine infrastructure such as jetties, aids to navigation and boat ramps.
It's just one of the ways the Crisafulli Government is delivering a plan for Queensland's future after a decade of decline under Labor.
The former Labor Government failed to properly regulate waterways on the Sunshine Coast, leading to choked and overburdened waterways, and a lack of clarity for marine industries, local councils, and residents.
Deputy Premier, Minister for State Development, Infrastructure and Planning and Minister for Industrial Relations and Member for Kawana Jarrod Bleijie said the Crisafulli Government was delivering on its election commitments to the Sunshine Coast, after community concerns had been ignored by Labor during their decade of decline.
"Labor spent their decade of decline ignoring the Sunshine Coast, despite the fact the Gold Coast had a similar body throughout their term. We promised to change that," Deputy Premier Bleijie said.
"From delivering urgent works for Bribie Island, to setting up the Sunshine Coast Waterway Authority, the Crisafulli Government is listening to locals, and getting on with doing what we said we would."
Minister for Transport and Main Roads Brent Mickelberg said the Sunshine Coast Waterway Authority was a critical step in securing the future of the Sunshine Coast's waterways for the community and visitors alike.
"The Sunshine Coast Waterways Authority will provide safe, accessible, and well-managed waterways that support marine businesses, recreational users, and the broader community," Minister Mickelberg said.
"This is about futureproofing the Sunshine Coast's lifestyle and economy. By establishing a dedicated local authority, we're ensuring that the region's waterways are protected and enhanced for generations to come."
Member for Maroochydore Fiona Simpson said the Sunshine Coast Waterways Authority would help local industries thrive.
"The Sunshine Coast Waterways Authority will be a one-stop-shop to deliver trusted local knowledge for all water users – it is a critical step in helping local industries continue to thrive and invest while protecting local waterways," Ms Simpson said.
Member for Caloundra Kendall Hatcher said that before the election she promised to deliver the Sunshine Coast Waterways Authority.
"I promised to deliver the Sunshine Coast Waterways Authority as a standalone authority before the last election, and I am proud to have delivered for Caloundra," Ms Hatcher said.
"It will help look after our waterways, give a boost to local waterways, and tourism operators, helping build a better lifestyle through a stronger economy."
Member for Pumicestone Ariana Doolan said the Sunshine Coast Waterways Authority would help protect the future of the Pumicestone Passage.
"The former Labor Government totally neglected the Pumicestone Passage, from dredging to restore access to neglecting marine infrastructure," said Ms Doolan.
"By delivering the Sunshine Coast Waterways Authority, the Crisafulli Government is helping protect this waterway for future generations."
Maritime Safety Queensland will continue to serve as the state's maritime regulator, remaining responsible for marine safety including on-water compliance, education and enforcement, as well as marine pollution and emergency response to ensure consistency across all Queensland coastal waters.
A staged handover of functions, responsibilities, and assets from Maritime Safety Queensland will occur throughout the second half of 2026 to ensure continuity of services.
