The Gold Coast is experiencing rapid population growth and is one of the fastest growing regions in Australia, placing increasing pressure on the capacity and performance of the existing transport network. The city is expected to reach a population of 1 million by 2040 – upgrades are needed to expand high capacity public transport and support a shift away from private vehicle use. Capacity constraints are expected to be further intensified in the lead up to the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games, which will generate an increase in travel demand across South East Queensland.
The proposal aligns with the Infrastructure Policy Statement, Transport and Infrastructure Net Zero Roadmap and Action Plan and the National Urban Policy, which emphasise the importance of high capacity public transport in supporting productivity, enabling housing growth, improving liveability and reducing emissions through increased public transport use. The proposal also aligns with the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games Intergovernmental Agreement between the Australian and Queensland governments which includes transport as a partnership focus. Public transport infrastructure on the Gold Coast is also included in the 2032 Delivery Plan guiding infrastructure delivery in the lead up to the games.
PROPOSAL DESCRIPTION
This proposal is for a package of public transport improvements to increase network capacity, improve access and connectivity, and relieve pressure on the Gold Coast road network. The proposal includes strengthening north-south and east-west public transport corridors to better connect residential growth areas with major activity centres. Potential upgrades could include extending the existing heavy rail network beyond Varsity Lakes, alongside targeted improvements to bus services and priority infrastructure connecting residential areas with Surfers Paradise, Southport, Robina and Burleigh Heads.
INVESTMENT RECOMMENDATION
The Australian Government should note this proposal as a potential future investment opportunity within the 2-4 year pipeline.
OPPORTUNITIES AND OUTCOMES
This proposal has the potential to:
- Increase public transport capacity and reliability – upgrades would strengthen the ability of the network to accommodate future growth in travel demand, supporting forecast population growth.
- Relieve pressure on the road network – improved public transport capacity and performance would support mode shift and ease congestion pressures on key road corridors.
- Support housing and urban growth – better access to fast, frequent public transport would support connectivity to jobs, education and services for the Gold Coast’s growing population, supporting housing development and more efficient land use outcomes in a high growth area.
- Support sustainability outcomes – enabling more trips by public transport would support reduced transport emissions and a more efficient transport system.
NEXT STEPS
Proponent to progress development of potential investment options (Stage 2 of Infrastructure Australia’s Assessment Framework).