policy
Coastal Development Controls Referendum: Effects on Sunshine Coast Airport Routes and Hospital Services
The referendum asks Sunshine Coast residents to decide on changes to coastal development rules that would direct revenue toward projects including Maroochydore airport international routes and Sunshine Coast University Hospital expansion.
How we reported this
The Coastal Development Controls Referendum proposes alterations to planning rules that govern new building approvals along the Sunshine Coast coastline. Residents in divisions covering Maroochydore, Mooloolaba and Caloundra will cast votes on whether tighter height and density limits should apply, with any resulting revenue ring-fenced for transport and health infrastructure.
State government projections released in the 2025-26 budget papers indicate continued population growth on the Sunshine Coast through to 2030. This growth has already prompted feasibility work on light rail corridors and additional international flight capacity at Maroochydore airport, both of which require coordinated funding streams beyond existing rate revenue.
Local services and employment links
Under the proposed rules, a portion of development contributions would support the next stage of the Sunshine Coast University Hospital expansion scheduled for detailed planning in 2027. Local advocates note that additional bed capacity would directly affect emergency and elective surgery waiting times for residents in the Noosa, Maroochy and Mooloolah river catchments. Tourism operators in Alexandra Headland have stated that improved airport access could sustain seasonal employment in hospitality and ground handling roles.
Policy analysts cite the Productivity Commission’s 2024 review of local infrastructure levies, which found that dedicated revenue streams reduce reliance on state budget cycles for projects such as public transport feasibility studies. The legislation states that any levy collected must be reported annually to council and allocated only to listed infrastructure items, including the light rail business case and coastal protection works.
Next steps for voters
Ballot papers will be mailed to enrolled electors from 1 August, with voting closing on 15 September. The Queensland Electoral Commission will publish the final count by 22 September, after which any approved changes would take effect from 1 January 2027. Residents can review the full explanatory statement and draft levy schedule on the Sunshine Coast Council website before casting votes.