Queensland Parliament Session: Sunshine Coast Waterways Bill and Regional Development Under Scrutiny

State Parliament Convenes to Discuss Sunshine Coast Waterways and Regional Development

The Queensland Legislative Assembly is scheduled to meet in Brisbane today, Tuesday, March 24, 2026, with several key items on the agenda directly impacting the Sunshine Coast region. High on the list of government business is the continued progression of the Sunshine Coast Waterways Authority Bill, alongside formal inquiries into regional development planning and infrastructure validation.

Sunshine Coast Waterways Authority Bill

One of the primary legislative focuses for today’s session is the Sunshine Coast Waterways Authority Bill. This proposed legislation is expected to undergo further debate as the government looks to streamline the management of the region’s complex canal systems and coastal assets. The bill aims to establish a dedicated authority to oversee the maintenance and environmental protection of the Sunshine Coast’s unique water infrastructure, a move that has seen significant interest from local residents and maritime stakeholders.

Kawana Waters Development Inquiries

During the parliamentary session, the Deputy Premier is expected to address specific questions regarding the Sunshine Coast Regional Council’s Development Control Plan 1, particularly concerning Kawana Waters. Inquiries have been raised regarding the status of certain infrastructure designations, specifically reference MID0624-0855, and why they were not retained under the updated legislative framework. This scrutiny follows the implementation of the Planning and Other Legislation Amendment Act 2025, which has been a point of contention for local planning authorities and developers alike.

Disaster Relief Claims Open for Coast Residents

In a major government activity taking effect today, the application window for disaster recovery financial support officially opens at 2:00 PM. Following the significant rainfall and flooding events that impacted the Sunshine Coast and North Queensland throughout February and early March 2026, the State and Federal Governments have activated the Disaster Recovery Allowance. Residents who have been affected by these natural disasters can begin lodging claims for assistance through the official government portal this afternoon.

Local Innovation Launch at City Hall

On the local level, the Sunshine Coast Council is hosting the "Innovation at Altitude" event today at Altitude Nine in the Sunshine Coast City Hall. This monthly series serves as a launch point for the Sunshine Coast Innovation Pathway, a government-led initiative designed to connect and strengthen the region’s technology and innovation ecosystem. While the formal council ordinary meeting is not scheduled until later this week, today’s session at City Hall provides a platform for the Mayor and council representatives to engage with industry leaders on the future of the local digital economy.