Queensland infrastructure Archives

A $170 million terminal redevelopment near Buderim is set to reshape Sunshine Coast Airport at Marcoola, nearly doubling its terminal footprint, tripling the departure lounge, and introducing sustainability-led features designed to accommodate strong passenger growth.

Expansion Underway

The Sunshine Coast Airport Terminal Redevelopment Project began construction earlier this year, with the first stage—the new outbound baggage handling facility—scheduled for completion in early 2026. The full terminal expansion is expected to be finished by 2027. Once complete, the upgraded facility will expand the existing terminal from 6,100 square metres to 11,750 square metres, increase departure gates from five to seven, and triple the departure lounge space from 1,250 square metres to 3,750 square metres.

Queensland infrastructure — Photo Credit: DEV2025/1675

Design and Delivery

The project is being delivered by McNab, a local construction company, in partnership with global architectural firms Populous and Fentress Studios, with project management handled by Planned Performance. The redevelopment aims to modernise the passenger journey from check-in to boarding through the installation of new technology, including 18 self-service kiosks, 10 automatic bag drops, and upgraded security screening.

Design elements emphasise sustainability and comfort, incorporating mass timber, rainwater harvesting, expanded solar power systems, and energy-efficient HVAC. The design also prioritises natural light and open viewing areas of the runway to create a relaxed passenger experience reflective of the Sunshine Coast lifestyle.

terminal expansion — Photo Credit: DEV2025/1675

Local Jobs and Regional Growth

Around 2,000 workers will be engaged during construction, with 90 per cent of trades and subcontractors sourced locally. The expansion is forecast to support the region’s growing aviation sector, with passenger numbers expected to reach 1.8 million in FY26 and 2.4 million by 2030.

Gateway Precinct Master Plan

In addition to the terminal expansion, a 30-hectare Gateway Precinct Master Plan has been lodged within the Sunshine Coast Airport Priority Development Area. The proposal, submitted on 8 September 2025 under reference DEV2025/1675, outlines five sub-precincts dedicated to aviation, tourism, retail, commercial, and industry uses. It includes plans for a 250-bed transit hotel, retail hub, landscaped public spaces, and new intersection upgrades along David Low Way, with provision for future rail or metro integration.

Community Feedback and Future Outlook

Residents around Buderim and Marcoola have expressed both optimism and questions about the project, citing hopes for improved flight routes and local transport connections. Some also raised the absence of aerobridges, which remains unconfirmed in project details.

The redevelopment marks a key milestone in the Sunshine Coast’s long-term infrastructure planning, supporting tourism and regional business growth. Construction will continue throughout 2026, with the completed terminal expected to open in 2027, providing an expanded, sustainable, and community-driven gateway for the region.

Published 13-Oct-2025

A Push To Ease Pressure On Caloundra Roads

The Caloundra congestion relief plan has been officially included in the Queensland Transport and Roads Investment Program, with construction set to begin later this year. The upgrades will target five major traffic hotspots that locals say have caused long-standing delays during school runs, commutes and weekends.

Caloundra Road now sees over 32,000 vehicles daily, with traffic increasing by more than 30 per cent in the past 20 years. Local leaders say the gridlock has affected everyday life and business movement across the region.

The plan combines five infrastructure projects, including key intersection upgrades and new links to ease pressure. The transport department says the aim is to improve road safety, increase access, and support Caloundra’s growing population.

What The Plan Includes

The upgrade includes completing the Nicklin Way to Third Avenue connection to give drivers another route into Caloundra’s CBD. An overpass will link Kawana Way Link Road and Bells Creek Arterial over Caloundra Road, while other works will improve key intersections, including Bellvista Boulevard and Pelican Waters Boulevard.

Early works have started on some sites, with overpass design planning expected before the end of 2025. While a $400 million cost was pledged before the election, final figures haven’t been confirmed. Premier David Crisafulli said actual costs will become clear after the tender process.

Community Relief And Cautious Optimism

Residents and business owners have long pushed for action on Caloundra’s traffic issues, which worsen during school times and holidays. Locals say rapid growth in nearby areas like Aura and Baringa has added pressure to already busy roads. MP Kendall Morton noted the congestion has made even short trips difficult, while Mayor Rosanna Natoli said the upgrades will help with day-to-day life and local business.

Some concerns remain over the lack of detailed costings, but the overall response from the community has been positive. The government says it will focus on cost-effective delivery through staged construction and competitive tendering.

What Comes Next

All five parts of the Caloundra congestion relief plan are now fully funded under the state’s QTRIP program. Major construction is set to begin in stages from the second half of 2025, with some early site work already underway. No completion date has been confirmed, but the upgrades will be rolled out gradually to limit disruptions.

Authorities have asked locals for patience, as temporary traffic changes will be needed during the build. Once finished, the works are expected to ease congestion and improve road links across the Sunshine Coast.

Published 05-July-2025

Tag: Queensland infrastructure

$170 Million Airport Redevelopment Near Buderim Targets 2027 Completion