Commuters on the northern Gold Coast are set to benefit from a major transport expansion, with the state government announcing a light rail extension through Labrador to Harbour Town.
The project forms the first part of the Crisafulli Government’s new Gold Coast Transport Plan, designed to address the city’s surging population and provide key infrastructure ahead of the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.
Heading north to Harbour Town The northern extension will connect the existing Gold Coast University Hospital station to Harbour Town in Biggera Waters. The route will run along Olsen Avenue and Oxley Drive, delivering three new stations at Musgrave Avenue, Labrador, and Biggera Waters.
To accommodate the larger network, additional light rail vehicles will be acquired and a new depot constructed. Commuters will also benefit from the government’s permanent 50 cent fares, making the trip from Harbour Town to the Gold Coast Airport highly affordable.
Member for Bonney Sam O’Connor highlighted the long wait for this infrastructure. “Light rail to Harbour Town has been talked about for more than a decade, so we’re proud to be getting on with the job of delivering it to cut congestion, and connect thousands of people in Biggera Waters, Labrador and Arundel to world class public transport,” Mr O’Connor said.
Member for Southport Rob Molhoek also welcomed the announcement. “The connection to Harbour Town is a significant step that will reduce congestion and improve accessibility,” Mr Molhoek said.
A new metro for the south While the north gets light rail, the southern Gold Coast is set to receive a new metro style service called The GC Surfer.
Following a review of Gold Coast Light Rail Stage 4, the government opted for this new service to protect local landmarks like Burleigh Heads National Park and Tallebudgera Creek. The GC Surfer will run every 10 minutes, connecting Robina to Coolangatta via Varsity Lakes, Burleigh Heads, and the Gold Coast Airport.
Premier David Crisafulli said the government was fast tracking these projects. “We promised we would deliver generational infrastructure investment across Queensland, including here on the Gold Coast, and that’s exactly what we’re doing,” Premier Crisafulli said.
Both projects are scheduled for delivery before the 2032 Games, with planning continuing ahead of a formal procurement process.
