We're calling for clear timelines, funding certainty and a thoughtful approach to the Gold Coast Travel Plan. 💛
The South-East Queensland Transport Association has welcomed the Queensland Government’s new Gold Coast travel plan, saying the announcement is a major step forward for public transport on the Gold Coast, but must now be backed by clear delivery timelines, proper funding and long-term network planning.
Announced on Tuesday, the Queensland Government is delivering "Metro-style services" and a light rail extension to Harbour Town, however SEQTA is choosing to remain cautiously optimistic as there are still a number of questions the Queensland Government themselves lack answers to.
The Gold Coast Transport Plan will serve as a vital addition to the Gold Coast’s public transport network, supporting one of Queensland’s fastest-growing regions, however, SEQTA believes the proposed "Metro-style" services must be delivered as genuine high-priority public transport, not simply a rebranded bus route. If this approach is pursued, it must include dedicated bus lanes where needed, strong signal priority, accessible station-style stops and reliable connections to light rail, heavy rail, the airport and surrounding bus services.
Any works delivered under the plan should also be future-proofed for the Gold Coast’s long-term transport needs, including the possibility of future light rail expansion south of Burleigh Heads. Short-term solutions should not make long-term projects harder, slower or more expensive to deliver.
SEQTA Lead Founder Imogen Buckley said the announcement was promising, but the details would determine whether the plan succeeds.
This is a major step forward for public transport on the Gold Coast but now the Government needs to show how it will actually be delivered.
If Metro-style services are the path forward, they need to be treated as serious public transport infrastructure. That means priority, reliability and connections that actually work for passengers.
The worst outcome would be delivering a short-term solution that has to be ripped up or rebuilt later. The Gold Coast deserves infrastructure that is designed properly from day one.
SEQTA welcomes the proposed light rail extension to Harbour Town, while calling for further clarity on the southern Gold Coast corridor and how Metro-style services will integrate with future light rail planning.
ENDS
