Noosa’s Independent MP Sandy Bolton has raised concerns that a proposed regional waterways authority could weaken Noosa’s voice in decisions affecting its rivers and lakes.
The Sunshine Coast Waterways Authority Bill 2026, tabled in State Parliament this week, proposes the creation of a new statutory body to oversee waterways from Pumicestone Passage to the Noosa River and Noosa Lakes.
Under the proposed legislation, the authority would be governed by a chairperson and six additional members. Ms Bolton said there appeared to be no requirement for any member to come from Noosa.
“Noosa has been seeking clear answers for a year and a half about what the Sunshine Coast Waterways Authority will mean in practice and why Noosa was included without prior engagement,” Ms Bolton said.
The authority would have powers relating to navigation within waterways, monitoring and managing sand movement, installing and maintaining infrastructure, and developing waterways management strategies.
Ms Bolton said questions had been raised given the significant work already undertaken locally through the Noosa River Management Plan, developed over many years with input from residents, businesses, environmental groups and Noosa Council.
“Residents want to know how another layer of bureaucracy, at significant cost, will benefit Noosa when what we really need are extra resources for on-the-ground monitoring and management,” she said.
The MP said there was also uncertainty about how the proposed authority would interact with existing agencies including Maritime Safety Queensland and the Department of Agriculture and Fisheries, which already manage key aspects of waterways and marine activity.
“Any new structure must strengthen, not undercut, nor duplicate existing arrangements,” Ms Bolton said.
She is calling for genuine consultation with Noosa Council, local stakeholders, recreational and commercial waterway users, and environmental groups before any changes proceed.
“Our waterways are central to Noosa’s identity, economy and lifestyle. Any changes to how they are governed must be undertaken with our community, not around it,” she said.
Government says authority will deliver long-term management
The Queensland Government says the legislation delivers on an election commitment by the Crisafulli Government to establish the Sunshine Coast Waterways Authority (SCWA) by 1 July 2026.
The authority would take responsibility for maintaining waterways and delivering marine infrastructure such as jetties, dredging and boat ramps across the region, including the Mooloolah River and Mooloolaba State Boat Harbour.
Deputy Premier Jarrod Bleijie said the move fulfilled a key election promise.
“Establishing the Sunshine Coast Waterways Authority is another example of the Crisafulli Government delivering on our election commitments,” he said.
Transport and Main Roads Minister Brent Mickelberg said the authority would provide structure and governance for waterways management and support safe, accessible marine areas for residents and visitors.
Maritime Safety Queensland would remain the state’s maritime regulator, responsible for safety compliance, education, enforcement and emergency response.
