With the Sunshine Coast set to surpass 500,000 residents by 2041, experts are examining how the region can grow without losing its “essence and vibe”.
As one of Australia’s fastest growing regions, the area is at a critical juncture, balancing rapid population growth with protecting its character, liveability and identity.
Sunshine Coast Council says the region’s population has surged by more than 80,000 in the past decade and continues to grow by about 8000 residents a year.
Against this backdrop, the Sunshine Coast Business Council (SCBC) hosted a conference that brought together some of Australia’s most respected strategic thinkers in urban planning and city shaping.
SCBC Chair Sandy Zubrinich said the event was an important step in bringing together diverse perspectives to shape the region’s future.
“The calibre of speakers at this event reflects the importance of the conversation we need to be having as a region,” Ms Zubrinich said.
“Growth is coming – the real question is how we manage it thoughtfully and collaboratively. This conference was about encouraging a mature, informed discussion on how we retain the essence and vibe of the Sunshine Coast, while planning for a future also that supports our communities, the economy and our environment.
“With continued growth forecast in the lead-up to the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games, our state and local governments face increasing demand on planning frameworks and infrastructure delivery.
“The challenge is not just keeping pace with growth but doing so in a way that preserves distinctive urban identities we are so proud of on the Sunshine Coast, as well as our vibrant public spaces and the qualities that attracted residents, businesses and visitors here in the first place.”
Opening remarks were delivered by Walker Corporation Group executive, development Peter Saba, followed by expert presentations exploring planning approaches for new and transforming cities, precincts and communities that protect unique urban identities.
Speakers included Urbis managing partner James Tuma, Sharp Day co-founder and director Mike Day, and Buchan director and commercial architect Phil Schoutrop.
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Mr Tuma said embracing change was unavoidable, but how it was managed was critical.
“The reality is that no change is not an option,” Mr Tuma said.
“The places that succeed in the long term are not anti-growth – they are pro-identity and disciplined enough to defend it.”
He cited global examples including Boulder in Colorado, Malaga in Spain and Queenstown in New Zealand.
“For the Sunshine Coast, the opportunity lies in clearly defining what matters most, investing in that identity, and welcoming growth in a way that strengthens it rather than dilutes it,” Mr Tuma said.
Phil Schoutrop said architects and designers didn’t just create buildings, they created places for people, and was often the space between the buildings that mattered most.
“Places without people don’t work ‒ they’re like a footy field with no game ‒ but when people feel comfortable spending time, playing and connecting in a place, they come back,” he said.
“Understanding the needs of the Sunshine Coast community is what turns those spaces into places where people genuinely want to be and that’s the opportunity we have here.”
The speakers also took part in a panel discussion facilitated by Sunshine Coast Council director Sustainable Growth and Planning Debra Robinson, with closing remarks delivered by Sunshine Coast Mayor Rosanna Natoli and Gympie Mayor Glen Hartwig. About 100 industry and community leaders attended the event.
Sunshine Coast Business Council is the region’s peak business advocacy body, representing around 10,000 businesses across major industries.
