MEDIA RELEASE
8 May 2026
Federal Member for Fisher, Andrew Wallace MP, is calling on the Albanese Government to back the Sunshine Coast in the upcoming Federal Budget, following detailed discussions with Sunshine Coast Council on priority projects for the region.
Mr Wallace said that the Coast continues to face rapid population growth and mounting pressure on infrastructure, housing and essential services, and warned the region cannot afford to be overlooked once again.
“The Sunshine Coast is one of the fastest growing regions in the country, and if we don’t get the investment right now, we will continue to fall behind,” Mr Wallace said.
“I’ve worked closely with Council and formally written to the Government to support a clear and practical pipeline of projects that will deliver for our community.”
Mr Wallace is advocating for Federal funding support for the following priority projects within Fisher:
- Sunshine Coast Regional Indoor Community Sports Centre – $162 million
A major community facility to meet surging demand for indoor sport, with participation doubling in recent years and existing venues already at capacity. - WAVE Public Transport System – Stages 2 and 3 (50% Federal funding sought)
Including rail from Caloundra to Birtinya and a bus rapid transit connection through to the Sunshine Coast Airport, critical to reducing congestion and supporting growth. - Bruce Highway Upgrade (Steve Irwin Way to Caloundra Road – business case and future delivery)
A nationally significant corridor, with Council seeking Federal support to progress a six-lane upgrade to ease congestion and improve safety. - Social and Affordable Housing – $160 million + $120 million for supported housing facilities
Including new supported accommodation projects in Caloundra and across the region to address rising housing stress and homelessness. - Diamond Head Seawall – $25 million
Protecting critical coastal infrastructure and communities from erosion and extreme weather. - Sunshine Coast Medical School (UniSC) – 100 Commonwealth Supported Places
A critical investment in the local healthcare workforce, helping train doctors locally to meet growing demand. - Manufacturing Excellence Forum – Advanced Manufacturing Demonstrator Hub – $5.2 million
Driving innovation, skills development and high-value manufacturing jobs on the Sunshine Coast.
Mr Wallace said these projects are essential to the future of the Sunshine Coast and cannot be delayed.
“These are not nice-to-haves, they are must-haves if we want to keep our region liveable, connected and economically strong,” he said.
“From fixing congestion on our roads, delivering housing, to building the infrastructure we need for the 2032 Olympics and beyond, this is about planning properly for the future.”
Mr Wallace said investment in local industry and workforce development was also critical.
“The Sunshine Coast has enormous potential in advanced manufacturing, healthcare and tourism, but we need to back that potential with real investment,” he said.
“This Budget is a chance for the Government to show it understands what regional communities like ours actually need.”
Mr Wallace said he will continue to advocate strongly for every project.
“Following cut after cut after cut from this Federal Government for our region, I will keep fighting for Fisher’s fair share because the Sunshine Coast cannot afford to be left behind, yet again.”
[ENDS]
Media Contact: Brendan West – 0402 556 646 – Brendan.west@aph.gov.au
