Our vision for 2041

The Environment and Liveability Strategy builds a pathway to a healthy environment and liveable Sunshine Coast in 2041.

In 2041, the distinctive natural landscape and character of our internationally recognised Sunshine Coast Biosphere has been retained, and travelling north from Brisbane, the green inter urban break, lush food bowl and dark sky areas welcome you.

The rich biodiversity, pristine waterways and beaches and the majestic Glass House Mountains are defining features. The rivers, creeks, beaches and the ocean are places for safe and healthy experiences to connect with nature and refresh. The plants and animals thrive and have adapted to the changing conditions we are experiencing, retaining a natural and healthy state.

Corridors of green connect the Coast’s biodiversity to our neighbourhoods and green fingers connect our neighbourhoods and people. Living in vertical neighbourhoods in our centres and along public transit corridors, cascading down to medium and low density neighbourhoods and towns mixed with pockets of rural residential and rural living, there is housing choice for all. The Sunshine Coast architectural style has matured into a model for sustainable and subtropical design excellence, renowned around the world.

Getting around on the Sunshine Coast is supported by an effective and efficient network of active and contemporary public transport systems linking the hinterland to the coast and supporting key employment, education and tourist hubs.

Our cool green neighbourhoods operate in self-contained models reducing car travel and increasing cycle and walking opportunities, keeping us active and healthy. Access for all to facilities and services including high quality sport venues and recreation parks support inclusive, connected and engaged communities. Energy and food resources are sourced locally and our streets are places for people, supporting local enterprises and businesses and creating vibrant spaces and places for community and economic activity.

Affordable living options give everyone a home, and generations live together supporting each other. Everyone is welcome. It is an age and family friendly and safe place to live.

Opportunities to work from home or close to home improve work life balance and support stronger social connections and collaboration. A strong local economy gives residents employment opportunities based around sustainable industries and technologies.

Vibrant public spaces and places host a wide variety and diverse range of activities – keeping healthy and creative communities alive. Community gardens, street markets and community events demonstrate the commitment of residents to create and buy locally, strengthening the region’s liveability and sustainability.

The warmer climate and more frequent extreme weather events have been planned for and community responsiveness and resilience are now part of a local climate-ready culture which understands and embraces the realities and opportunities of adaptation planning. Our environment, community and local economy are able to absorb change, manage major events and bounce forward to a stronger, resilient state.

Local energy sources are integral to the landscape and landfill stations are now powerful economic hubs for composting, recycling and generating energy. As a leader in sustainability, the greenhouse gas emissions on the Sunshine Coast are the lowest in the southern hemisphere.

International and interstate visitors keep returning to enjoy the strong connection to nature and to experience the relaxed local culture. Major sporting events showcase the region’s attributes and regularly host competitors, spectators, families and friends. Local food production, creative industries and nature based activities are key features of the region.

As a region of choice, a good quality of life is enjoyed by all residents.