Sunshine Coast Light Rail Project Profile

The Sunshine Coast Light Rail project is a strategic mass transit initiative designed to establish a sustainable public transport spine for one of Australia’s fastest-growing regions. This profile details the engineering, economic, and operational scope of the 23km first stage, which will connect key urban centres from Maroochydore to Caloundra. The system is engineered to mitigate severe traffic congestion and support projected long-term population growth through a high-capacity, low-emission transport solution.

Project Fact Sheet

Technical Specifications

The Sunshine Coast Light Rail will be built on a dedicated right-of-way to ensure high-frequency and reliable service. The system’s core technology revolves around a fleet of modern, fully low-floor Light Rail Vehicles (LRVs). These modular electric units, measuring between 30 and 40 metres in length, are designed for high capacity and passenger accessibility, featuring full air-conditioning and open-air sections. Traction power will be supplied via a standard 750V DC overhead line system, minimising environmental impact and ensuring operational efficiency. The initial 23km route is the first of a planned six-corridor network, which will ultimately integrate with high-frequency bus services to provide comprehensive regional coverage.

Key Takeaways

• Congestion Mitigation: The project is engineered to directly counter the region’s unsustainable 86% private car dependency, aiming to increase public transport’s modal share from 3.6% to over 10% by 2031.
• Economic Catalyst: The light rail is projected to generate approximately 9,000 jobs during construction and operation, acting as a major stimulant for economic development and private investment along the transport corridor.
• Sustainable Urban Growth: By providing a scalable, low-emission transit backbone, the system is a foundational piece of infrastructure designed to support the Sunshine Coast’s projected population doubling over the next 50 years.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

When will the Sunshine Coast Light Rail open?
Construction for Stage 1, the 23km line between Maroochydore and Caloundra, is anticipated to commence following final investment decisions and government approvals. A projected opening is targeted for the early 2030s, contingent on the successful completion of these planning phases.

Who is building the Sunshine Coast Light Rail?
The project is led and managed by the Sunshine Coast Regional Council. Major contracts for civil engineering, trackwork, systems integration, and rolling stock supply will be awarded through a competitive public tendering process as the project moves into the construction phase.