With the Federal election approaching, Sunshine Coast Council is calling on political parties to support funding and policy initiatives which deliver critical region-shaping infrastructure.
Sunshine Coast Mayor Rosanna Natoli said 365,000 people call the Sunshine Coast home and by 2041, another 153,000 would live in the region taking the population to 518,000.
“To help manage this growth, Sunshine Coast Council’s immediate priorities include providing the necessary transport solutions that connect major development areas, beachside suburbs, business precincts and tourist hubs to Queensland’s existing passenger rail network,” Mayor Natoli said.
“The Sunshine Coast has a high dependence on car travel. To maintain our liveability, we need to provide safe and accessible transport options.
“We reaffirm council’s commitment to, and strong support for, the heavy rail from Beerwah to Maroochydore and we are asking the political parties to commit to funding and delivering the Mooloolah River Interchange upgrade.
“The Sunshine Coast deserves a transport system that works for locals now and leaves a legacy for future generations.”
Mayor Natoli said an efficient international airport and a contemporary convention and performing arts facility were also high priorities.
“We also want to advance manufacturing and innovation, and support growth in jobs and tourism,” she said.
“Urgent action is also required to increase affordable housing to enable more families to have a safe and secure place to call home. This funding must be fast-tracked.
“We are calling for fairer funding for councils through the Australian Financial Assistance Grants which is desperately needed. Restoring this to just one per cent of total Australian tax revenue would mean an additional $12 million for the Sunshine Coast.
“Council also acknowledges the challenges posed by climate change and emphasises the need to protect coastlines from rising sea levels.
“A Coastal Hazard Management Strategy is in place with the Australian Government’s Disaster Ready Fund providing a key funding pipeline to implementing coastal protection works.
“We are asking the political parties to commit to continuing this important funding until at least 2029-2030 and increasing the $200 million funding pool to $300 million.
“Our beautiful beaches and coastal areas, together with our stunning hinterland, are essential to the fabulous Sunshine Coast lifestyle and are key attractions that draw so many visitors each year.”
