2026 Waterways Management Program released
More than $12 million in new funding will be invested in the Gold Coast’s waterways in 2026–27 through GCWA’s newly released Waterways Management Program 2026–2030.
The Program sets out planned investment in dredging, navigational access, waterways management, asset renewal and the operation and maintenance of the Gold Coast Sand Bypass System.
Key activities include maintaining waterways assets and facilities, assessing their condition and continuing hydrographic surveys to guide dredging and future investment.
Planned dredging includes the North Channel, South Channel and Coomera River Channel, as well as maintenance dredging at the Gold Coast Seaway entrance.
The Program will also deliver GCWA’s ongoing compliance activities and introduce the Strengthening Gold Coast Waterways Management Program in 2026–27. This work aims to improve waterways management, compliance and navigational access.
GCWA will continue developing the Broadwater Local Waterway Plan and investigating future projects so they are ready to progress when funding becomes available.
Updated annually, the Waterways Management Program confirms GCWA’s priorities for the current financial year and outlines proposed investment for the following three years.
It draws on technical investigations, asset and waterways data, and consultation with the City of Gold Coast, government agencies, the maritime industry and the community.
The Program puts the long-term direction of the Gold Coast Waterways Management Strategy 2021–2030 into action through practical projects and activities.
As a rolling plan, its priorities and timing may change in response to funding decisions, project readiness, emerging risks and operational needs.
