On 4 March 2026 the Hon Brent Mickelberg MP, Minister for Transport and Main Roads, introduced the Sunshine Coast Waterways Authority Bill 2026 into the Queensland Parliament. The objective of the Bill is to establish the Sunshine Coast Waterways Authority (SCWA) as a statutory body. The Bill provides for the SCWA to be responsible for defined waterways from Pumicestone Passage in the south to the Noosa lakes in the north, including the Noosa, Maroochy and Mooloolah rivers. The Bill establishes a board for the SCWA as its governing body, and provides for the appointment of a chief executive officer and SCWA staff.
The functions of the SCWA include to:
- plan strategically for the management of the Sunshine Coast waterways by developing a waterways management strategy, that considers the benefits and impacts for the local community, local environment, and local marine industries, tourism and economy
- develop a waterways management program to implement the waterways management strategy
- install, manage and maintain infrastructure for the Sunshine Coast waterways
- manage navigational access to, and within, the Sunshine Coast waterways
- monitor and manage sand and sediment movement in Sunshine Coast waterways and adjacent coastal waters and land.
The SCWA will be required to consult with the public and with Maritime Safety Queensland and the Moreton Bay, Noosa and Sunshine Coast local governments to develop the waterways management strategy.
The Sunshine Coast Waterways Authority (SCWA) will formally commence operations on 1 July 2026, delivering a strong local focus on waterways management, navigation access, sustainable waterways, and long-term planning for the region.
The Sunshine Coast Waterways Authority will oversee waterways from Pumicestone Passage to the Noosa River and Noosa Lakes, including the Mooloolah River and the Mooloolaba State Boat Harbour.
It will be responsible for long-term marine planning, dredging and maintenance of declared channels, and the delivery and upkeep of essential marine infrastructure such as jetties, aids to navigation and boat ramps.
We will keep you informed as to any changes and updates when this new statutory body begins its operations in full.