The long-awaited Sunshine Coast rail and metro transport project, The Wave, has taken a major step forward, with the 2025–26 State Budget allocating an extra $40 million to fast-track planning for stages two and three — linking Caloundra to Maroochydore and the Sunshine Coast Airport.
Billed as a transformative public transport solution, The Wave will deliver heavy passenger rail from Beerwah to Birtinya and metro services through Maroochydore CBD all the way to the airport, promising seamless connections for residents, commuters and tourists.
It is among several big-ticket transport projects prioritised in a record $41.7 billion transport and roads budget, which the Crisafulli Government says lays the foundation for a fresh start in Queensland.
“This Budget respects Queenslanders’ money while delivering the transport infrastructure needed to support our economy, population growth and future Olympic commitments,” said Transport and Main Roads Minister Brent Mickelberg.
Key projects receiving investment under the Budget include:
- $9 billion Bruce Highway Targeted Safety Program with 80:20 restored funding
- Country Roads Connect program ($100 million) to upgrade regional unsealed roads
- Caloundra Congestion Busting Plan and Mooloolah River Interchange under the Safer Roads, Better Transport Plan
- $27.5 million Schools Transport Infrastructure Program to improve traffic and student safety
- $15 million for the Keeping Our Waterways Safe program
- Free Disability Parking Permits from 1 July as part of cost-of-living relief
Treasurer David Janetzki said the Budget delivers on the government’s promise of a fresh start. “We’re focused on restoring respect for taxpayer dollars and ensuring Queensland is future-ready,” he said.
Mr Mickelberg said The Wave project, alongside other key initiatives, would play a vital role in transforming the state’s transport future.
“We’re working across multiple levels of government and with industry bodies to explore innovative products and delivery options to drive value for money and manage project cost pressures,” he said.
“These include improving design quality, conducting earlier investigations to manage risk, and engaging with industry early to ensure better outcomes.”
