Clogged for Too Long: Caloundra’s Congestion Cure Finally in Motion
By Mark Officer | Jaz Realty Blog | July 2025
After years of traffic jams, mounting public frustration, and stalled momentum, the wheels of progress are finally turning for the southern Sunshine Coast. The long-awaited Caloundra Congestion Busting Plan has officially been included in Queensland’s Transport and Roads Investment Program—marking a significant step toward solving one of the region’s most pressing infrastructure problems.
With more than 32,000 vehicles using the Caloundra Road corridor every day—one of the busiest outside Brisbane—the time for action has well and truly arrived. And according to the state government, that action is now underway.
Relief for a Region on the Move
The initiative promises a comprehensive overhaul of Caloundra’s most congested intersections and critical thoroughfares, all designed to support the region’s rapid growth and improve daily life for residents, businesses, and visitors alike.
Key upgrades include:
• Completing the Nicklin Way to Third Avenue connection, redirecting traffic off the overburdened Nicklin Way and Caloundra Road.
• A new Kawana Way Link Road/Bells Creek Arterial Road overpass over Caloundra Road.
• A vital link between Aura Boulevard and Pelican Waters Boulevard, improving east-west connectivity.
• Upgrades to the Bellvista Boulevard-Caloundra Road intersection, including new slip lanes.
• Major improvements at the notorious Nicklin Way, Caloundra Road and Pelican Waters Boulevard intersection.
What’s in it for the Property Market?
At Jaz Realty, we know that infrastructure drives confidence—and property values. Easier access, less gridlock, and faster travel times make communities more attractive to buyers, especially families and professionals. These upgrades won’t just benefit traffic—they’ll help unlock the potential of southern Sunshine Coast suburbs like Little Mountain, Caloundra West, Baringa, and Aura.
Whether you’re buying your first home, investing, or considering a move closer to the coast, improved roads mean a more connected, convenient lifestyle—and that’s a major drawcard for today’s buyers.
Politics, Promises, and Price Tags
Despite the fanfare, the announcement wasn’t without controversy. The state government has yet to release cost estimates for the project, prompting swift criticism from the Opposition. Shadow Transport Minister Bart Mellish accused the government of backpedaling on funding clarity, suggesting the true cost could exceed the $400 million previously pledged before the election.
In response, Premier David Crisafulli stood firm:
“Traffic has been clogged up here for too long, which is why we are removing the gridlock to get Caloundra Road flowing again.”
The Premier added that the government was committed to delivering on time and on budget, using market competition to drive down prices before confirming total costs.
Deputy Premier Jarrod Bleijie and Minister for Transport and Main Roads Brent Mickelberg echoed the sentiment, framing the project as “generational infrastructure” that would prepare Queensland for future growth—especially with the Brisbane 2032 Olympics on the horizon.
Shovels in the Ground
Some works have already begun, including early site activity at the Caloundra Road and Nicklin Way intersection. Construction on the Caloundra Transport Corridor Upgrade is set to start this year, with detailed designs for the overpass at Kawana Way and Caloundra Road also in the pipeline.
Local MP Kendall Morton said the plan directly addressed community concerns:
“These upgrades will make it easier and safer for families, small businesses and visitors to move around Caloundra.”
Sunshine Coast Mayor Rosanna Natoli welcomed the announcement, calling it “incredibly exciting” and a sign that long-promised change is finally on the way.
Final Word
Yes, it’s been clogged for too long. But today, there’s a genuine sense of momentum.
If you’re wondering what this means for the real estate market, the answer is clear: better infrastructure brings better opportunities. As traffic starts to clear, interest in southern Sunshine Coast suburbs is likely to surge.
Thinking of buying or selling in Caloundra or surrounds? Contact Mark Officer at Jaz Realty for expert local insights and a road map to your next move.
