A new authority tasked with managing and maintaining Sunshine Coast waterways will begin operating from July after legislation passed state parliament last week.
The Sunshine Coast Waterways Authority (SCWA) will oversee waterways stretching from the Pumicestone Passage to the Noosa River and Noosa Lakes, including the Mooloolah River and Mooloolaba State Boat Harbour.
The state government said the body would take responsibility for long-term marine planning, dredging and maintenance of declared channels, along with infrastructure such as boat ramps, jetties and navigation aids.
Operations are scheduled to commence on July 1, with a staged transfer of responsibilities, assets and functions from Maritime Safety Queensland during the second half of the year. Maritime Safety Queensland will remain responsible for marine safety regulation, including compliance, education, emergency response and marine pollution management.
The legislation fulfils an election commitment by the Crisafulli Government to establish a dedicated waterways authority for the region.
Deputy Premier and Kawana MP Jarrod Bleijie said the authority was intended to provide a stronger local focus for waterways management.
“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,” Mr Bleijie said.
Transport and Main Roads Minister Brent Mickelberg said the authority would support marine industries, recreational users and the wider community.
“This is about futureproofing the Sunshine Coast’s lifestyle and economy,” Mr Mickelberg said.
Do you have an opinion to share? Submit a Letter to the Editor at Sunshine Coast News via news@sunshinecoastnews.com.au. You must include your name and suburb.
Maroochydore MP Fiona Simpson said the authority would act as a central point for waterways management and marine industry engagement.
Caloundra MP Kendall Hatcher said the authority had been a pre-election commitment in the electorate, while Pumicestone MP Ariana Doolan said it would help support the long-term management of the Pumicestone Passage.
The Government has argued the new authority is needed to improve coordination of dredging, navigation access and marine infrastructure management across the region’s waterways.
