The Australian and Queensland governments have awarded design and pre-construction contracts for the first phase of The Wave, a A$5.5bn ($3.9bn) rail project set to build a new 19km dual-track line between Beerwah and Caloundra on Queensland’s Sunshine Coast.
The project, jointly funded by the Australian and Queensland governments on a 50-50 basis, aims to address transport needs in one of Australia’s fastest-growing areas.
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Three contracts have been issued covering different aspects of the development. Beerwah Coast Connect, comprising Georgiou, Hatch and Laing O’Rourke, will oversee brownfield works around Beerwah and adjacent sites.
CoastalTraX, a partnership between Acciona and Georgiou, is responsible for greenfield works extending from east of Steve Irwin Way to Caloundra. Alstom and UGL will handle the European Train Control System signalling package.
The first stage of The Wave will feature new stations at Aura (Bells Creek) and Caloundra, as well as upgrades to the existing Beerwah station.
The route is designed to link the Sunshine Coast more directly with the broader South-East Queensland rail network.
The Wave is included in the 2032 Delivery Plan, intended to deliver infrastructure supporting both the region’s population growth and the upcoming Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.
The broader vision encompasses further rail extensions and the development of a metro-style service from Birtinya to the Sunshine Coast Airport, via Mountain Creek and Maroochydore CBD.
Australia Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Federal Minister Catherine King said: “The Wave Stage 1 is another example of the Australian and Queensland governments working collaboratively to deliver the infrastructure Australia needs.
“This project will create jobs, boost economic growth and improve connectivity for Sunshine Coast communities and businesses.”
Queensland Deputy Premier and Minister for State Development, Infrastructure and Planning Jarrod Bleijie stated: “The Wave will be a game changer for Sunshine Coast locals and will help provide a real alternative to sitting on the Bruce when they’re travelling to Brisbane.”
Over the next year, the Queensland government plans to work with Beerwah Coast Connect and CoastalTraX to finalise detailed designs. This phase will involve site investigations and further public consultation on station precincts.
The Albanese government has allocated A$2.75bn towards Stage 1, reflecting a wider move to invest in transport infrastructure for the region.
The Wave is positioned as one of three major projects intended to change how people travel on the Sunshine Coast, in response to anticipated population growth and low current levels of public transport use.
