Two tenders released to market for the Direct Sunshine Coast Rail Line

The Direct Sunshine Coast Rail Line takes a step further towards delivery with the release of two tenders and the opening of a new information and engagement centre. 

The new information centre at the heart of Caloundra serves as a hub where locals can talk with project representatives as well as view maps, concept images, timelines and detailed information about the Direct Sunshine Coast Rail Line as the project progresses from planning to delivery. 

“This major investment in the Direct Sunshine Coast Rail Line is locked in to ensure the region has the infrastructure it needs. 

“The project information centre opening is an exciting new milestone as we deliver on the vision to connect the Sunshine Coast to Moreton Bay, Brisbane and beyond. 

“The Direct Sunshine Coast Rail Line will not only revolutionise the way locals move around their region, but unlock new transport opportunities for tourists to visit the Coast as well,” Federal Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Catherine King said. 

“This information and engagement centre is all about being up front with people aout what this project means, how much it will cost, and when it will be built,” Deputy Premier and Treasurer Cameron Dick said. 

Tenders seeking engineering teams and procurement specialists to assist in finalising the reference design and support procurement activities are now out to market as well. These tenders will enable Transport and Main Roads to call for detailed quotes from the construction industry in 2025. 

Meanwhile, geotechnical investigations are being carried out along the project alignment from Beerwah to Birtinya. 

These investigations are a key milestone in the preliminary works package for Stage 1 of the Direct Sunshine Coast Rail Line and will provide vital information about ground conditions along the corridor. Furthermore, the geotechnical activities will also better inform environmental approvals, the design process and help contractors to price the project with more certainty. 

“This week we take the next step towards construction of the multi-billion-dollar 19-kilometre spur line – two tenders released and more geotechnical works. 

“I’m excited, and I know the community is excited that they can get onboard at every step of the project. 

“I’d encourage anyone interested in learning about the benefits and opportunities my government’s investment will deliver to pop into the new information centre. 

“Queenslanders can trust that my government is getting on with the job of creating a better, more connected South East Queensland,” Premier Steven Miles said. 

The first stage of the Direct Sunshine Coast Rail Line will deliver: 

• A 19-kilometre link between Beerwah and Caloundra 

• An upgraded station at Beerwah 

• New stations at Aura and Caloundra 

• Park ‘n’ ride and active transport connections 

• Up to 2,200 good local jobs 

• A 45-minute time saving during peak compared to driving 

The project is going to be built in stages and this progressive delivery approach will mean passengers can begin using the rail line sooner. 

“As more and more people choose to call the Sunshine Coast home, the Albanese and Miles governments are investing in the infrastructure this area needs to keep up with the growing demand. 

“Once completed, the Direct Sunshine Coast Rail Line won’t just benefit locals here and those in Brisbane, but also the millions of tourists who visit the region each year,” Federal Assistant Minister for Regional Development and Senator for Queensland Anthony Chisholm said. 

“This is a significant step forward for this exciting project that will revolutionise transport on the Sunshine Coast. 

“The new information and engagement centre is all about keeping locals informed as this transformational project takes shape. 

“The Direct Sunshine Coast Rail Line is another major investment on our rail network by the Miles Government and we want to keep Queenslanders updated on its progress every step of the way,” Member for Caloundra Jason Hunt said. 

Key features of the overall Direct Sunshine Coast Rail Line development include: 

• A 37.8-kilometre dual track rail extension between Beerwah and Maroochydore to increase public transport opportunities 

• New stations along the corridor 

• Park ‘n’ ride and associated facilities to increase accessibility 

• Active transport provisions along the corridor to improve safety and encourage these transport modes 

• Maintenance access, stabling and operational facilities 

The Queensland and Australian Governments have each committed $2.75 billion towards Stage 1 of the Direct Sunshine Coast Rail Line. 

Major construction on Stage 1 is expected to begin in 2026 and be completed by 2032. 

“Queensland is growing fast and a lot of the growth is happening on the Sunshine Coast, which is why we are backing rail infrastructure to support the region’s future. 

“With trains able to travel at 140kph on large sections of the new line, it will help people move around our region and get to where they live, work and play quickly and easily. 

“This public transport infrastructure project will help us to manage road congestion as the region grows and encourage more people to use more sustainable and climate-friendly transport options. 

“The Direct Sunshine Coast Rail Line is a win for transport and a win for the lifestyle that the Sunshine Coast region is known for,” Transport Minister Bart Mellish said. 

Source: Queensland Government – Media Statements; Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government; Queensland Government – Direct Sunshine Coast Rail Line; Queensland Government – Department of Transport and Main Roads; Infrastructure Magazine; Roads & Infrastructure Australia