The Queensland Government has formally abandoned Stage 4 of the Gold Coast Light Rail project, shifting its focus toward enhancing bus services and launching a broader regional transport study. The decision follows a community review process and signals a significant departure from the previous government’s approach.
With 5,600 public submissions received during the independent review of the proposed Stage 4 extension, with the majority calling for more flexible, cost-effective alternatives that better preserve the region’s natural environment and community character, the government has decided to abandon the project altogether in form of an upgraded bus system, with details to be released.
Concerns raised by the community included the impact on sensitive local landmarks such as Burleigh Head National Park and Tallebudgera Creek, as well as potential financial blowouts. Estimates for the project’s final cost had reportedly risen as high as $9.85 billion, far exceeding earlier figures.
According to the government a key point of contention was the consultation process conducted under the former Labor Government. According to the review, more than half of participants felt they had not been properly consulted, and nearly two-thirds expressed negative sentiment about the project.
In response, the Crisafulli Government confirmed that it will not proceed with the light rail extension and will instead invest in bus network improvements. The Department of Transport and Main Roads has been tasked with conducting a multi-modal transport study, designed to address long-term needs across the Gold Coast, including airport connectivity and alternative transit options.
This is the latest chapter in a series of delays to major infrastructure delivery on the Gold Coast over multiple Liberal and Labor government and raises questions about long-term planning. The decision effectively pushes the issue further down the road at an ever increasing cost base, despite the region already experiencing traffic congestion and rapid growth. With the Gold Coast’s population continuing to grow, pressure is likely to mount over the next decade for expanded infrastructure capable of supporting demand and no clear plan or alternative to appease locals and provide a solution on how we handle this in future.
Deputy Premier and Minister for State Development, Infrastructure and Planning, Jarrod Bleijie, shared the following remarks.
“After a sham consultation from the former Labor Government, this independent review revealed that locals want well-connected transport options that integrate into the existing infrastructure without disrupting the unique character of their community,” Mr Bleijie said.
He also criticised the previous government for failing to disclose key details. “Unlike Labor who treated the community with disdain by withholding details on property resumptions and carpark losses, locals were able to have a fully informed say following the release of previously hidden documents.”
Member for Currumbin Laura Gerber described the process as a return of decision-making to local hands. “Following a packed town hall and thousands of community submissions, the message is clear, with our proper consultation the community has finally been heard,” she said.
Member for Burleigh Hermann Vorster also thanked residents for engaging with the review, calling the community “passionate, informed, and ready to shape the future of transport on the Gold Coast.”
The government has committed to maintaining ongoing consultation with the community as it progresses the broader regional transport study, which aims to develop solutions that meet future growth while safeguarding local values and environmental assets.
With no real solutions heading towards the 2032 Olympics, what will this mean for the Gold Coast.
