Funding allocated to accelerate delivery of Caloundra Congestion Busting Plan

A major congestion busting plan that will ease traffic on Caloundra Road is now listed in the Queensland Transport and Roads Investment Program, as part of the 2025-26 State Budget. 

This means that the five projects in the Caloundra Congestion Busting Plan are a step closer to being delivered. 

The Plan will provide an alternative access route into the Caloundra CBD as well as upgrades to key intersections and support enhanced public transport infrastructure, futureproofing the Caloundra traffic network to accommodate future growth. 

The generational infrastructure projects included in the Caloundra plan are also part of the Crisafulli Government’s Safer Roads, Better Transport Plan that will get busy roads flowing again while improving safety and supporting the growing Sunshine Coast community. 

“We stood here before the election and promised to put an end to the Caloundra carpark and we are delivering on that promise. 

“Traffic has been clogged up here for too long, which is why we are removing the gridlock to get Caloundra Road flowing again,” Premier David Crisafulli said. 

“This is about more than just reducing congestion – it’s about creating a transport network that supports economic growth, enhances liveability, and ensures Queensland is ready to shine on the global stage in 2032. 

“The Caloundra Congestion Busting Plan is a prime example of how we are investing to deliver for Queenslanders after an era of Labor’s chaos and crisis,” Deputy Premier Jarrod Bleijie said. 

Projects included in the Caloundra Congestion Busting Plan are: 

• Completing the Nicklin Way to Third Avenue connection to take traffic off the Nicklin Way, Caloundra Road and Pelican Waters Boulevard roundabout, providing alternative access into Caloundra CBD 

• Constructing a new Kawana Way Link Road/ Bells Creek Arterial Road overpass over Caloundra Road to keep traffic moving 

• Upgrading the Bellvista Boulevard-Caloundra Road intersection including adding slip lanes to and from Caloundra Road to boost capacity 

• Upgrading the intersection of Nicklin Way, Caloundra Road, and Pelican Waters Boulevard 

• A new link between Aura Boulevard to Pelican Waters Boulevard to ease pressure on Caloundra Road 

More than 32,000 vehicles travel the Caloundra Road corridor each day, making it one of the busiest arterial roads outside Brisbane – seeing at least 30 per cent growth in traffic in the past 20 years. 

“The Caloundra Congestion Busting Plan is a game-changer for the region. 

“Work has already started, and we are exploring innovative ways to deliver this project to ensure value for money for taxpayers and maximise the benefits for Queenslanders,” Minister for Transport and Main Roads Brent Mickelberg said. 

“Our community has told us lound and clear that congestion is impacting daily life – from school drop-offs to weekend beach trips. 

“These upgrades will make it easier and safer for families, small businesses, and visitors to move around Caloundra, particularly along Caloundra Road. 

“I’m proud to be part of the Crisafulli Government delivering infrastructure needed now and for the future of Caloundra,” Member for Caloundra Kendall Morton said. 

Source: Queensland Government – Media Statements; Sunshine Coast News; Trailer Magazine