By Sonia Isaacs
Local candidates have slammed the Sunshine Coast hinterland’s public transport system as “unacceptable” and stated the residents of Fisher “deserve better.”
They are calling on all levels of government to step in, with some locals forced to endure round trips of over five and a half hours to access essential services on the coast.
Federal Member for Fisher, Andrew Wallace MP, said: “This situation is simply not good enough. Our hinterland communities deserve better access to essential services without having to endure marathon transport trips.
“I have been tirelessly advocating for improved health services, road and rail infrastructure in the hinterland, recognising how critical these improvements are for our residents’ quality of life.”
Mr Wallace welcomed the recently announced $10 billion infrastructure package from the State LNP Government, which he said included funding for key projects, including enhancements to hinterland bus services.
“These initiatives will provide much-needed relief and connectivity for our communities,” he said.
“Accountability across all levels of government is key, and we must hold all levels of government accountable, ensuring that these projects are delivered efficiently and effectively.”
He added: “I remain committed to fighting for better infrastructure in our region, because Fisher should not have to struggle with inadequate transport options any longer.”
Independent candidate Keryn Jones said:
“Hinterland residents spending over five hours on public transport to access essential services like Centrelink is simply not good enough. It reflects a broader failure in planning, connectivity, and service delivery across all levels of government.”
Ms Jones said she would work with all levels of government to improve transport links. “We need to ensure the proposed rail line from Beerwah to Birtinya with rapid bus transport to Maroochydore and the airport goes ahead. Timely bus links from hinterland areas to meet the train schedules will also be vital.”
She also outlined short-term fixes she would pursue if elected: “I’ll push for practical, short-term fixes like making virtual appointments more accessible and exploring how Services Australia staff could offer mobile or pop-up services in hinterland townships while we improve transport options.”
Queensland Greens candidate for Fisher, Renay Wells, said:
“The current public transport situation facing hinterland residents is completely unacceptable. It represents a systemic failure of planning and investment across all levels of government.”
“We urgently need bold investment in frequent, reliable, and affordable public transport that properly connects the hinterland to key service hubs like the Sunshine Coast University Hospital, the university, and major employment precincts,” Ms Wells said.
Labor candidate Morrison Lakey suggested forming local advisory forums to ensure infrastructure funding aligns with community priorities:
“The best way to meet regional needs is to listen to locals,” Mr Lakey said.