sunshine coast tourism tax

Shock over council's major rate hike on holiday accommodation: 'Hell of a lot'

Investors are "horrified" at the increases, some of which have risen by more than 48 per cent..

A huge increase to rates on Sunshine Coast holiday accommodations has been slammed as a “tourist tax” by those impacted by huge rises of up to 48 per cent.

The steep increase was announced in the Sunshine Coast Council’s 2023-2024 budget last month, but property owners are now feeling the pinch as they receive their first rates notices with the higher charge.

While rates for long term rentals and owner-occupied dwellings on the coast went up by 5.5 per cent on average, short term accomodation – which council classifies as anything that is rented for periods of less than 42 consecutive days at any one time – rose by a whopping 44 per cent on average.

Owners of low-rise units suffered the sharpest rate rises with a 48.4 per cent jump, while high rise units increased by 45.6 per cent and stand alone houses went up by at least 34.8 per cent.

Rate rises 'horrific' for owners

Unit owners and investors are “horrified”, the general manager of Mooloolaba’s Landmark Resort told the Courier Mail .

“They’ve put a carte blanche blanket over every short term rental and it’s affected every tourist apartment on the Sunshine Coast so it’s nothing but a tourism tax,” Brett Thompson said.

“There’s horror, a 46 per cent increase is horrific for these people because obviously with the cost of living at the moment and the cost of body corporate levies.”

Sunshine Coast Airbnb property manager Tanya Tempest, who owns Soullful Stayz, said she feels the latest rates notices will be a shock to some of her clients, but believes the council’s plan to convert some short-term accomodation into long-term rentals will ultimately be successful.

“We’ve really had to drop down the pricing just to get bookings, so I guess this on top of it will definitely affect a lot of people and I guess they may not have any other choice but to put their properties in the long-term pool again rather than do the short-term,” Ms Tempest told Yahoo News Australia.

“I definitely do see that happening.”

She said a friend had recently received their new rates notice showing an increase of $500.

“Which is a hell of a lot,” she said. “I knew they were going up, but not to that extent so I was quite shocked too.”

Council responds to rate increase

A Sunshine Coast Council spokesperson told Yahoo News the new rates now reflected other government areas in South East Queensland.

"In setting the Differential General Rates for 2023/24, Council considered the relative contribution to the overall rate revenue generated across all rate categories.

"Given Council’s considerable and on-going contributions towards tourism and major events in the region it was considered that the Transitory Accommodation rating categories were required to be revised.

"Therefore, to be consistent with other South East Queensland tourism destinations, short term stay accommodation properties have been reviewed and benchmarked, resulting in general rates comparable to those of other local government authorities."

The spokesperson said any property owners who opted to makes their dwellings available for long-term use would have their rates reduced accordingly.

"A review of all differential rating categories for units is proposed for this year with potential outcomes reflected in future financial years," the spokesperson continued.

"With regard to payment of rate notices, if unit owners are unable to pay their rates by the due date, they may be eligible to pay their rates by interest free instalments, if paid by the end of the current half yearly rates period (31 December 2023)."

Families to be evicted after neighbour's complaint to council: 'Disgraceful'

Man facing $20,000 fine, jail time after neighbour complains about new driveway

Furious homeowner covers car in DOG POO in parking row

Council releases new plan to combat homelessness

The rates notices come as council released its Housing and Homelessness Action Plan on Thursday, which states the number of residents experiencing homelessness has risen by 54 per cent between 2016 to 2021.

“The rental vacancy rate as of January 2023 was 1%, which is three to four times less than the rate considered suitable. As a result of this continued pressure on the Sunshine Coast housing system which is affecting our community,” the report states.

Do you have a story tip? Email: [email protected] .

You can also follow us on Facebook , Instagram , TikTok and Twitter and download the Yahoo News app from the App Store or Google Play .

Latest stories

Has russia just dropped a deadly new 3,000kg glide bomb in ukraine.

IN FOCUS: ‘If a glide bomb hits then you’ve just got no hope’

Mother of the bride, 57, shocks with bizarre wedding outfit: 'That is insane'

A mother of the bride's choice of wedding attire has sparked debate online. Is it really an appropriate choice?

Justin Timberlake's Reported Words During His Arrest Are The Internet's New Favorite Meme, And They're Hilarious

I'll be using this to describe all of my life's inconveniences from here on out.

Jelena Dokic photo reveals sad truth behind her 20kg weight loss

It seems Aussies just can't stop criticising Jelena Dokic, no matter what she does. But why? Asks Melissa Hoyer.

Rove: Trump declining in polls since hush money conviction

Republican strategist Karl Rove said Saturday that former President Trump has been declining in the polls since his New York hush money case conviction. “I agree, in fact, take a look at the evidence,” Rove said when asked by Fox News host Paul Gigot on “The Journal Editorial Report” if he agrees there is “movement…

Elle Doherty: Baby girl killed by family pet named by police - as they confirm breed of dog

Police have named and released a picture of the seven-month-old baby killed by a pet dog in Coventry. Elle Doherty suffered serious injuries to her head after being bitten by the family's dog inside their home, West Midlands Police have said. Elle received treatment at the scene before being rushed to hospital.

Lily Allen Just Got Seriously Real About Her And David Harbour’s Sex Life, And Said He 'Quite Often Asks For Things' In The Bedroom That She Won’t Do

Allen also shared the reason why she decided to reveal that she’d had intercourse with female sex workers during a “very, very promiscuous and experimental” phase of her life.

Judge dismisses criminal charges against Trump’s ‘fake electors’ in Nevada

The state’s attorney general is appealing ‘immediately’

This Parent Is Furious After Discovering Their School Outed Their 6-Year-Old Twins, Which Led To An Online Hate Campaign

"They’d all put my children in danger — and the school had done nothing to make us aware."

Shock loss to Afghanistan rocks Aussie T20 WC hopes

Australia's Twenty20 World Cup hopes have been hit by an upset Super Eight loss to Afghanistan in St Vincent.

Taylor Swift grabs royal selfie at London gig

The Prince of Wales celebrated his 42nd birthday at the singer's Wembley gig.

Trump’s New Promises: ‘Immunity’ for Cops, an Iron Dome, Cheaper Bacon

Police will have “immunity” to be rough with suspects, migrants may or may not be herded into a “fighting league” akin to the UFC, and bacon will be cheaper if Donald Trump wins the 2024 presidential election—according to him.The former president work-shopped some new lines during two campaign events on Saturday. “I’m giving immunity to police all over the country,” he said, a pledge that he repeated to supporters in both Washington, D.C. and Philadelphia. He lamented that police officers are “t

Judge Aileen Cannon pushes Trump’s lawyer to defend claim that special counsel is part of a ‘shadow government’

One day after it was reported that two federal judges urged Judge Aileen Cannon not to oversee the classified documents case against Donald Trump, three days of hearings began that could determine the future of the charges against the former president.

Hollywood legend touches down in Aus

A Hollywood legend who starred in one of the best science fiction films of all time is among the star-studded line-up headlining Australia’s biggest pop culture event.

I May Need To Go To The Doctor Because I Physically Can't Stop Laughing At The 17 Funniest Signs Of The Week

This is a strong bunch of silly little signs.

Major rain warning as mercury plunges

Multiple states are set to be lashed with falls of up to 60mm in the midst of a freezing weekend for thousands of Aussies.

How China could take Taiwan without even needing to invade

China’s military could isolate Taiwan, cripple its economy, and make the democratic island succumb to the will of Beijing’s ruling Communist Party without ever firing a shot, a prominent think tank warns in a new report.

Jane Fonda Pens Heartbreaking Tribute After Death of Former Co-Star

The two co-starred in the 1971 crime thriller 'Klute.'

Lady Gabriella Kingston left ‘deeply touched’ after service for late husband

Close friends and family of Mr Kingston, including some members of the royal family, attended the service at St Mary Abbots church in Kensington.

16-Year-Old Girl Rescues Zip-Tied Brothers In Escape From Abusive Home: Police Say

The heroic teenager and her siblings told police that more children remained captive inside the home, but no one was found there.

4BC - Brisbane's Premier News and talk radio station.

• Australia Overnight with Clinton Maynard
• 4BC Breakfast with Laurel, Gary & Mark
• 4BC Mornings with Bill McDonald
• 4BC Afternoons with Sofie Formica
• 4BC Drive with Peter Gleeson
• 4BC Wide World of Sports with Peter Psaltis
• Sunday Night Bill Crews June 23 2024
• Reverend Tim Costello (Why do Christians, both in the United States and Australia, support Donald Trump)
• Hugh Mackay (The Way We Are)
• Remembering John Blackman
• Healthy Living – June 23rd
• The Continuous Call Team – Full Show Sunday 23rd June 2024
• 4BC’s Birthday Call
• 4BC’s Grand in the Hand!
• 4BC Supports
• Advertise with us

Thanks for logging in.

You can now click/tap WATCH to start the live stream.

You can now click/tap LISTEN to start the live stream.

You can now click/tap LATEST NEWS to start the live stream.

Latest News

Create a 4BC account today!

You can now log in once to listen live, watch live, join competitions, enjoy exclusive 4BC content and other benefits.

Joining is free and easy.

You will soon need to register to keep streaming 4BC online. Register an account or skip for now to do it later.

Find out more about registration.

• Sunshine Coast Council raises rates..

Sunshine Coast Council raises rates causing ‘tourism tax’

Sunshine Coast holiday rental operators are suffering after the council has increased taxes on rental accommodation. 

The Sunshine Coast Council has followed Brisbane’s lead in increasing rates on short-term properties and has also raised taxes on holiday accommodation.

Brett Thompson, Member of Visit Sunshine Coast Sub-Regional Tourism Panel, told Peter Gleeson on 4BC Drive, “It’s an absolute disaster.”

“It’s bizarre, they spend seven or eight million dollars a year promoting tourism on the Sunshine Coast…and on the other hand he’s [Mayor Mark Jamieson] taxing every tourist accommodation operator on the Coast,” Mr. Thompson continued.

Image:  iStock

Cookie and privacy notice

We use cookies in order to personalise your experience and improve our services. See our privacy policy for more information.

• Macquarie Sports Radio

• Your Profile
• Your Subscriptions
• Support Local News
• Payment History
• Sign up for Daily Headlines
• Sign up for Notifications

Sunshine Coast Tourism confident about room tax renewal

• Share by Email
• Share on Facebook
• Share on LinkedIn
• Share via Text Message

Sunshine Coast Tourism (SCT) is getting ready to renew its accommodation tax and the destination marketing organization is predicting it will be easier to get support this time around.

The tax, known formally as a Municipal and Regional District Tax (MRDT), is a two per cent levy on room fees charged by accommodation providers in the Sunshine Coast and qathet regional districts.

Since coming into force in August 2016, the MRDT has brought in more than $900,000 to supplement $81,000 in local government funding and SCT’s other revenue sources.

In an update for Sechelt councillors on July 24, SCT interim executive director Annie Wise said the organization has to file for renewal by Feb. 1, 2021 and will, once again, have to demonstrate support from at least 51 per cent of the accommodation providers operating four rooms or more.

“The first time around that took us a number of years, and it was quite challenging,” Wise said. “We feel confident, because we’ve done an amazing job with those funds in the years that we’ve had it, that we can successfully get those signatures again. We’ll be looking to council to help support us and be a partner in that.”

When asked by Coun. Eric Scott about the challenges SCT might need council’s support overcoming, Wise responded that connecting with some accommodation owners can be difficult.

“There are lots of absentee owners,” she said. “Some of those owners are overseas … so sometimes that can be a challenge, but the ones we’re regularly engaged with feel really positively about what we’re doing.

“There a few fairly prominent hotels in Sechelt that I would say look as though they’re not really operating, or not regularly accepting guests… Those types of properties are difficult to get to sign on and to have communication with,” Wise said. “If there’s a relationship there that [councillors] may have and we can sit down and have a meeting with the owners and help share with them what we do and provide some background and information, that would be extremely helpful for us.”

Mayor Darnelda Siegers also asked whether the group is considering applying for an increase from two to three per cent when it files for the MRDT renewal. 

Wise said the SCT board has not made a final decision, but is leaning toward keeping the rate at two per cent.

Wise added that changes in the provincial rules that bring short-term rental operators under the MRDT regime have helped address some concerns about the tax being applied only to bigger accommodation providers. “I think that will really help our case,” she said.

The update from Wise also included news that traffic at the Sechelt Visitor Information Centre is up four per cent from this time last year.

SCT took over the contract for the Visitor Information Centre in Sechelt in March, bringing both lower Sunshine Coast centres into the SCT fold.

Wise also said SCT’s recent fall marketing campaign led to an eight per cent increase in room revenues, a 50 per cent uptick in website traffic and 20,000 referrals to local businesses in the span of three months.

Wise said one of the main areas for potential growth in the Sechelt area and the Sunshine Coast as a whole is in facilities that could host small conferences and retreats – especially in the shoulder season.

She said Sunshine Coast Tourism had to walk away from a chance to bid on hosting the Mountain Bike Tourism Symposium last fall, despite the natural fit for a region where mountain biking is a big attraction.

“We just didn’t have the facilities,” she said.

• Oldest Newest

This has been shared 0 times

More local news.

Featured Flyer

COVID-19 Update

COVID-19 information about travel restrictions, industry resources, funding support and safe business operations.

COVID-19 travel information

Operating your business safely, funding support, contact for assistance.

Visit Sunshine Coast (VSC) is focused on doing everything we can to provide practical support and information around COVID-19 to our tourism industry. We also encourage you to stay across our Visit Sunshine Coast Corporate Facebook page and weekly newsletters. Tourism is crucial to the social and economic recovery of the region and travellers can give Sunshine Coast businesses and communities the boost they need by visiting and spending locally.

As of 1am, Monday December 13, Queensland borders will re-open to domestic travellers from interstate hotspots.

• They can arrive by road or air.
• They must be fully vaccinated.
• They must provide a negative COVID test in the previous 72 hours.
• No quarantine is required for the fully vaccinated.
• All travellers from hotspots must get a test on day five after their arrival.

The mandate on who can enter businesses as per the  public health and social measures  will still take effect from 17 December.

Find out more .

Queensland Government workplace proof of vaccination posters and other business health and safety resources are now available to print and display for your customers and employees on what actions you are taking to stop the spread of COVID-19.  View and download here .

On Tuesday 9 November,  Queensland’s Public Health Measures linked to vaccination status – a plan for 80% and beyond  was released.

The plan outlines a range of measures that will see life return to normal for vaccinated Queenslanders once the state reaches 80% fully dosed.

Read more about the plan  – including restrictions for unvaccinated people and detailed frequently asked questions.

The Queensland’s COVID-19 Vaccine Plan was released on Monday 18 October 2021.

The plan details changes to domestic and international travel to Queensland when 70%, 80% and then 90% of Queensland’s eligible population is fully vaccinated.  View the Plan here.

COVID-19 Public Health Directions are in place in Queensland. Further to this, the official Public Health Direction provides further detail for businesses.

The Department of Tourism, Innovation and Sport has distributed a comprehensive newsletter outlining the financial support available for tourism businesses, as well as a one-page summary of all the Government Grants available for the tourism industry here .

Some financial grants and support available for tourism businesses and workers include:

• 2021   COVID-19 Business Support Grants The Commonwealth and Queensland Governments have reached a 50/50 funding agreement that will see the value of the  Queensland COVID-19 Business Support Grants  rise from $260 million to $600 million. As part of the package additional support for businesses that have had a decline in turnover of more than 30 per cent will include:
• – A  $1,000  one-off grant to non-employing sole traders across Queensland

Tiered payments based on payroll size for all businesses across Queensland:

• A  $5,000  one-off, top-up grant to small business with payroll of less than $1.3 million
• A  $10,000  one-off, top-up grant to medium sized business with payroll between $1.3 million and $10 million
• A  $25,000  one-off, top-up grant to large sized tourism and hospitality focused businesses with payroll of greater than $10 million.

This funding is in addition to the State Government’s  $5,000 2021 COVID-19 Business Support grants , which opened on 16 August.

• Tourism and Hospitality Sector Hardship Program
• A $40 million Tourism and Hospitality Sector Hardship Program is available for tourism and hospitality businesses offering one-off grants of $15,000, $25,000 or $50,000 for small, medium and large employing businesses that have experienced a reduction in turnover of at least 70% for at least seven consecutive days between 1 July and 30 September 2021.
• Eligible businesses include zoos, aquariums and wildlife parks, theme parks and water parks, various types of tour operations including marine tourism, and adventure activities such as go-karting, accommodation providers, cafes and restaurants, travel agents and more.
• Businesses that have already accessed other Queensland Government COVID-19 grant payments, such as the Business Support Grant, can access the Hardship Program providing they meet the eligibility criteria.
• Applications will open in October 2021 for a twelve-week period.

Find out more here:  https://www.dtis.qld.gov.au/our-work/tourism-hospitality-sector-hardship-program

• Tourism and hospitality sector COVID-19 lockdown support package There is a range of fee and payroll tax relief measures to provide immediate support for tourism and hospitality businesses impacted by the recent lockdowns in South East Queensland and in other states. The package includes:
• a six-month deferral of payroll tax payments for eligible tourism and hospitality businesses across the state impacted by current lockdowns.
• deferring, waiving or refunding a range of fees and charges for eligible tourism and hospitality businesses including 12-month fee waivers for tourism businesses operating in a national park, conservation park, recreation area or state forest (this includes whale watching operations);
• liquor licensing fee waivers and refunds;
• 12-month deferral of state lease fees for eligible tourism operators for the period between 1 July 2021 to 30 June 2022;
• 12-month fee waivers or refunds of inbound tour operator fees. This support is available for fee renewals up to 30 June 2022;
• another round of the COVID-19 Marine Tourism Rebate in for the 2021-22 financial year to offset berthing fees for marine tourism vessels at privately owned or privately operated marinas in eligible Local Government Areas and
• Queensland COVID-19 cleaning rebate.

More information is available on the Business Queensland website .

• COVID-19 Disaster Payment The Australian Government has announced extra support for people affected by Queensland COVID-19 hotspots and restrictions. Eligible workers will receive $750 per week if they lose 20 hours or more of work, while those that lose between 8 and less than 20 hours, or a full day of work, will receive a payment of $450 per week. More information will be made available soon for Queensland workers through the Services Australia webpage .
• Tourism Business Financial Counsellors Businesses can also contact one of the Queensland Government-funded Tourism Business Financial Counsellors or COVID-19 Small Business Counsellors who can assist with identifying potential sources of funding and business support. The counsellors provide free confidential assistance to businesses with understanding their finances, accessing government assistance, dealing with debt and referrals for additional support. To find your region’s local Financial Counsellor please visit:  Southern Queensland
• Assistance finder tool You can use the Queensland Government Business Assistance Finder tool to understand the other support that may be available to your business. Answer a series of questions about your business size and type to view the relevant business support packages available and applicable to you.

The Queensland government is regularly updating advice for businesses regarding COVID safe practices – please check the following website for latest information: https://www.qld.gov.au/health/conditions/health-alerts/coronavirus-covid-19

This helpful fact sheet helps you understand what you are (and are not) required to do as a tourism or events business at the front-line.

NewAccess for Small Business Owners is a free and confidential mental health coaching program, developed by Beyond Blue to give small business owners, including sole traders the support they need. The program is free and confidential, learn more here .

If you have any questions or feedback, please get in touch with our VSC Industry and Membership Development Manager Andrew Fairbairn via email [email protected] or call 0427 562 100.

In addition, if you need help understanding what the Public Health Directions mean for your business, you can contact the Tourism Response Team – ph. 134 268 or via email: [email protected]

Visit Sunshine Coast acknowledges the Sunshine Coast Country, home of the Kabi Kabi peoples and the Jinibara peoples, the Traditional Custodians, whose lands and waters we all now share. We wish to pay respect to their Elders – past, present and emerging, and acknowledge the important role First Nations people continue to play within the Sunshine Coast community.

Quick links.

Trade Membership Business Events

Opportunities

Marketing Co-Op Opportunities ATDW Assistance

Research Image Library Annual Reports

Consumer Site BE Sunshine Coast Site

© Copyright 2024 Visit Sunshine Coast Limited. All rights reserved

• Our partners
• Meet the team
• Work with us
• Visitor Information Centres
• Welcome from CEO
• Become a member
• VSC member portal
• Industry Events
• Plans and reports
• Media Asset Hub
• Gap year jobs
• Brand and campaigns
• Co-operative marketing
• Story Ideas
• Famil requests
• E-newsletters
• Business events
• Leisure events
• Event Promoter’s Kit
• Trade brochures
• Itineraries
• Famil Request
• Business Events

WUNYA NGULUM! (Welcome Everyone)

Welcome to the Sunshine Coast - a place that is sunny by name and sunny by nature.

With more than 100km of famous coastline wrapping around our lush hinterland hills, and  a beautiful UNESCO Biosphere Corridor to protect , our community is committed to living sustainably, celebrating all things local, and sharing our picturesque landscapes and abundance of produce. 

Our landscape is as diverse as the experiences. You’ll find yourself barefoot on the beach one minute, unwinding on hinterland time at a luxe farm stay the next, before settling in for a leisurely lunch made with ingredients sourced just down the road. You’ll quickly see why we’re known as Queensland’s Sunshine Pantry! 

What are you waiting for? Come find your Sunshine Moment with us today.  

Sunshine Coast events in 2024

We’ve gathered up some of the brightest stars on the Sunshine Coast event calendar for 2024.

An ultimate guide to the best beaches on the Sunshine Coast  

Whether you’re looking for a family-favourite spot, quieter escape or a social media favourite, we’ve got you covered in...

Sunshine Coast’s best pizza spots right now

Ciao, pizza lovers! While the Sunshine Coast is certainly home to plenty of fabulous beaches, it’s also got a smorgasbor...

Whale-watching on the Sunshine Coast

June marks the official start date of whale watching season in Queensland.

5 places to stay on your next Coolum escape

If you want to live like a local on the Sunshine Coast, look no further than Coolum Beach. 

Featured Events

Fri Jul 26 2024 - Sun Aug 04 2024

The Curated Plate

The Curated Plate has become the premier culinary festival of the Sunshine Coast in beautiful Queensland, Australia. Th...

Thu Jul 04 2024 - Sun Jul 07 2024

Queensland Garden Expo

Welcome to the 2024 Queensland Garden Expo, a fantastic four-day celebration of our 40th anniversary! This event is a ga...

Sun Jul 28 2024

Queensland's Sunshine Pantry live at The Station SC

Come along to Queenslands Sunshine Pantry, a free signature event of the Curated Plate to savour, learn, and enjoy. Its ...

Fri Jun 28 2024 - Sun Jun 30 2024

Rally Gympie Region: Wheels on Mary, Rally Village & Australian Rally Championship

Rally Gympie Region (RGR) is a three-day festival held in the Gympie Region and encompasses Wheels on Mary, Rally Villag...

Fri Aug 09 2024 - Sat Aug 10 2024

Australian Wearable Art Festival

You are invited to the Australian Wearable Art Festivals Gala, where over 40 national and international entries take to ...

Fri Aug 09 2024 - Sun Aug 11 2024

EVA Air Sunshine Coast Marathon Festival

The EVA Air Sunshine Coast Marathon and Community Run Festival is a member of the Association of International Marathons...

Queensland's Sunshine Pantry

From coastline to farmland, the Sunshine Coast’s unique geographic location within a UNESCO Biosphere corridor creates a recipe for success. Our volcanically rich terrain dishes up nutrient dense produce and an abundance of culinary experiences which are just waiting to be devoured. It's no wonder that over 900 producers and makers call the Sunshine Coast home. We’ve served up the best that our region has to offer below.

Discover more

Featured Deals

Fri Apr 26 2024 - Fri Jul 26 2024

Save $50 a night on all accommodation

Enjoy a Sunshine Coast holiday in our affordable & spacious apartments located in the heart of Hastings Street, Noosa. ...

Wed May 01 2024 - Sun Jun 30 2024

Warm Winter Sunshine Feels!

Embrace the warmth of the coast with our Winter Sunshine specials! Warm up this winter! Make the most of winter on the...

Tue Apr 30 2024 - Tue Jul 30 2024

Noosa Stay Longer and Save Up To 20% Off

Relax and rejuvenate in Noosa. Voted Peoples Choice Award for Best Accommodation in Queensland for four years, and among...

• Your Profile
• Your Subscriptions
• Support Local News
• Payment History
• Sign up for Daily Headlines
• Sign up for Notifications

Tourism tax program funds Sunshine Coast initiatives

• Share by Email
• Share on Facebook
• Share on LinkedIn
• Share via Text Message

Sunshine Coast Tourism’s (SCT) participation in the municipal and regional tax program (MRDT) has been renewed.

According to a media release from SCT, MRDT funding ensures the organization can continue to work with local tourism-related businesses to grow the Sunshine Coast as a sustainable, year-round tourism destination.

“It’s been a very tough year for the tourism industry worldwide and it’s not over yet, but Sunshine Coast Tourism has a way forward on the road ahead,” stated Paul Kamon, SCT executive director. “Reliable funding for the next five years provides us with the vital means to assess and build back better, with a strategic, managed growth strategy. With a strong foundation that predates the pandemic, we are well-positioned for the coming period of economic recovery.”

Since the MRDT was introduced on the Sunshine Coast in 2016, SCT has developed and delivered a wide range of initiatives to benefit tourism-related businesses and communities, including marketing campaigns, industry development strategies, visitor resources and branded communications strategies.

“As an owner of two large accommodations in Powell River, I am pleased and confident that we can continue to compete in what is now an ever more challenging business environment,” stated SCT president Jack Barr. “The renewed MRDT funding will not only help to drive market recovery on the coast, but it will also ensure that we thrive and sustain our tourism economy well into the future.”

The MRDT is a two per cent consumer tax on the purchase of all short-term accommodation to generate revenues for the development of tourism marketing programs and projects. It is collected in more than 55 municipalities across the province and is the primary funding source for most tourism marketing boards in BC, including Sunshine Coast Tourism .

• Oldest Newest

This has been shared 0 times

Featured Flyer

Kabi Kabi elders say 'life will still go on' in Queensland tourism hotspots after successful native title claim

Indigenous elders say a landmark native title claim in heavily urbanised and tourist destinations of south-east Queensland will not change the way people enjoy or live in the area.

The Federal Court on Monday formally recognised the Kabi Kabi people as native title holders over 365,345 hectares of land and water on Queensland's Sunshine Coast. 

The Sunshine Coast is one of the most populated areas in regional Queensland, with more than 317,000 people calling it home.

The determination marks the first occasion on Australia's east coast when native title has been recognised in a heavily urbanised area. 

Native title is the name Australian law gives to the traditional ownership of land and waters that have always belonged to Aboriginal people according to their traditions, laws and customs.

The Commonwealth Native Title Act sets out how native title rights are to be recognised and protected.

Kabi Kabi traditional owner Brian Warner said the native title declaration does not apply to any land used by the government or any freehold land that's been bought by citizens.

"It applies to Aboriginal land or unallocated state land, areas of cultural significance," Mr Warner said.

"National parks, state forests and reserves."

The decision recognises the Kabi Kabi people's non-exclusive rights to areas including Gympie, Maroochydore, Caloundra, Bribie Island, Mudjimba Island and popular tourist areas around Noosa North Shore and Teewah Beach.

Queensland South Native Title Services CEO Tim Wishart said Queenslanders and visitors will notice little, if any, difference to areas under native title even if they own property in the region.

"For mainstream Australia, native title is a relatively benign thing, it is not going to affect them," he said.

"The Kabi Kabi people were recognised as holding non-exclusive native title, that means that the rights are exercisable subject to the laws of the state and the Commonwealth. 

"They can't prohibit people from going places, they can't stop people going onto beaches, or onto Mudjimba Island or Mount Coolum. Native title isn't a grant of land, it's a recognition of rights."

Where is the Kabi Kabi native title area?

The traditional country of the Kabi Kabi People is along the Sunshine Coast from north of Brisbane to the Gregory and Isaac rivers south of Bundaberg.

The land also takes in the eastern part of the coastal ranges including the volcanic Glasshouse Mountains and the Mary River, which flows from the Conondale Ranges to the sea near Maryborough.

The court's decision only applies to Part A of the Kabi Kabi people's claim, which extends in the south from Elimbah Creek catchment area, Sandstone Point and Bribie Island, north to Cooloola National Park, Curra State Forest, Mary River and the Isis River, and in the east from lowest astronomical tide of the coastline west to Nambour, Jimna and the Burnett and Coast ranges.

Queensland South Native Title Service's Tim Wishart says Parts B and C of the claim are yet to be determined.

"Part B is a heavily urbanised area starting at about Caboolture and going south, and that's still under assessment by the state," he said.

"Part C is an area in which some other Indigenous people assert they hold native title rights. 

"The court might have to decide who has rights then, that will happen in the future, I don't know exactly when." 

There are many sacred and ceremonial sites on Kabi Kabi land including bora rings, used for gatherings, dancing, and ceremonies, as well as axe grinding and painting sites.

Will any native title land be blocked off?

Brian Warner said the short answer is, no.

"Life hasn't ended, and life will still go on the way it's been happening up until today," Mr Warner said.

"So, nothing will cease.

"The only thing is people recognising our right to reside on country or be part of a part of a local community or grassroots level or whatever level we're at."

The Kabi Kabi people have been lobbying for decades to receive native title recognition.

Their first native title claim was lodged in the mid 1990s.

Yesterday's native title ruling is the first time that the right to "take resources from the area for any purpose" is being recognised in South-East Queensland.

Mr Wishart said it did not mean Kabi Kabi people could access private properties owned under freehold title.

"Freehold title is the typical suburban block on the Sunshine Coast," he said.

"Native title doesn't exist on freehold land, and the native title holders can't access that land to exercise any of the rights that were granted to them." 

He said if anyone believed they had an area of cultural significance on their property they should engage with cultural experts who could help preserve it. 

Access important for everyone

Increasing the public's access to culturally significant land is a focus of the Kabi Kabi people and Sunshine Coast Council.

New proposed walking trails at Mount Ninderry Environmental Reserve are in the works under a project to honour the Kabi Kabi people's connection to the land, while creating all abilities access.

The council is also seeking community feedback on a new cultural education hub for the site.

Kabi Kabi man Kerry Jones said it was important to share stories of the land with everyone.

"It's a part of our story line, our legend that is connected to all these significant mountains and rivers around here," Mr Jones said.

"Kabi Kabi has been working with Council and we have the opportunity to look at new trails and share the stories of the Kabi Kabi peoples."

Why is native title important?

Brian Warner said the native title decision means Kabi Kabi people will be able to share their culture and teach others its significance.

"We still abide by the local laws that surround us," he said.

"But with the lands being given back to us, it allows us to still practice our ways and teach or educate our people that the significance of culture heritage, and we can do back burning, or cultural burning or cool burning."

"Just having a way to re-educate our people."

Mr Warner said what most people love and enjoy about the native title area's natural beauty is the same as what Indigenous people call being on country.

"Have you been on Teewah Beach at 4:30 in the morning, and there's like this magic mirror that's in front of you?" he said.

"Then that dawn comes and breaks that mirror into pieces, and behind that mirror is a humpback whale."

"You're up on Mary River, and the cloud drops out of the sky and it's snaking its way down along the river and you're standing in this cold, crisp air.

"Having you feel those moments of nature, and the beauty that's within our landscape, that's a great way of saying what it's like to be on country, it's beautiful."

ABC Sunshine — local news in your inbox

• X (formerly Twitter)

Related Stories

Kabi kabi people awarded native title over 365,345 hectares of land on sunshine coast.

'We're being dispossessed as we sit here': First Nations truth-telling lays bare fight for water rights

• Bribie Island
• Colonialism
• Federal - State Issues
• Government and Politics
• Indigenous Culture
• Indigenous Policy
• Maroochydore
• Native Title
• Tourism and Leisure Industry
• Travel and Tourism (Lifestyle and Leisure)

Your browser is not supported for this experience. We recommend using Chrome, Firefox, Edge, or Safari.

• Privacy Policy

#sunishinecoastbc

Getting Here & Getting Around

Getting here & getting around.

Getting to the Sunshine Coast is part of the adventure.

The Sunshine Coast is located on the mainland of British Columbia, Canada (just northwest of Vancouver) and stretches 180 km (110 mi) along the Salish Sea, from Howe Sound to Desolation Sound. Although it’s part of BC’s mainland, access to the region is by air or by water only due to the mountainous terrain. There are no bridges connecting the Sunshine Coast to the Vancouver or Vancouver Island regions.

Sunshine Coast Communities

Get to know the sunshine coast.

Discover a string of quaint, coastal communities that offer a slower pace of life, allowing you to truly connect to nature.

Ch’ḵw’elhp

Gibsons sits at the southwest corner of Howe Sound, perched on a hillside overlooking several small islands. It was featured in a classic CBC TV show called The Beachcombers.

Gambier Island

Chá7elkwnech.

Gambier Island is home to approximately 100 permanent residents. BC Ferries and local water taxis offer convenient foot passenger service.

Keats Island

Lheḵ’tínes.

Keats Island is located just offshore from the community of Gibsons. BC Ferries and local water taxis offer convenient foot passenger service.

Roberts Creek

Xwesam / stelḵáya.

Roberts Creek is a funky artist community. Discover cultural and natural attractions in the area such as the Roberts Creek Mandala and the waterfalls in Cliff Gilker Park.

Sechelt sits on a narrow isthmus that separates the Sechelt Inlet from the Salish Sea. It serves as a fantastic adventure hub and is also home to a bustling arts scene.

Halfmoon Bay & Secret Cove

Discover some of the most stunning coastline and beach access points on the Sunshine Coast in Halfmoon Bay & Secret Cove. These areas are full of outdoor recreation opportunities.

Thormanby Island

Thormanby Island is known for its beaches, a large bay that provides safe anchorage for boats, and provincial parks that offer backcountry camping opportunities.

Pender Harbour

Pender Harbour is the name of a harbour and also the larger area around the harbour, which is surrounded by small communities such as Madeira Park (salalus), Kleindale, and Garden Bay.

Egmont is home to Skookumchuck Narrows Provincial Park. You'll also find a range of waterfront accommodations and restaurants, along with unforgettable kayaking and boat tours.

Nelson Island

Nelson Island is accessible by private boat or floatplane. It sits along the BC Ferries route between Earls Cove and Saltery Bay, so you can easily view the island during your ferry trip.

Powell River

Powell River is a city surrounded by natural beauty and adventure. It's home to the Sunshine Coast Trail, the Powell Forest Canoe Route, and more.

Texada Island

Sah yeh yeen.

Texada Island is affectionately called “The Rock” by locals. BC ferries offers car & foot passenger service from Powell River.

Lund is known as the “End of the Road” due to its location at Mile 0 of Highway 101, which is part of one of the longest highway networks in the world, running from Canada to Chile.

Savary Island

Savary Island is one of the most beautiful islands in the Salish Sea, featuring white sand beaches & stunning ocean and mountain views. Water taxi service is available from Lund.

Copeland Islands

The Copeland Islands (also known locally as the Ragged Islands) offer excellent opportunities for kayaking and wildlife viewing.

Getting Here

You can get to the Sunshine Coast by ferry, private boat, or plane. Ferry options include taking your own vehicle, travelling by bus, or walking on to the ferry (you can even bring your bike).

Making a ferry reservation is recommended, but if you’re unable to make a reservation, keep in mind that space is also available on a first-come, first-served basis. 

Ferry Crossing Times

Please note that the following BC Ferries routes accept both vehicle and walk-on passengers.

Driving Times

Highway 101, also known as the Sunshine Coast Highway, is the main highway to all communities in the region. You can check current conditions on the  DriveBC  website.

*A water taxi or small passengers-only ferry is required to get to most islands on the Sunshine Coast.   

Planning to travel with an electric vehicle? Check out our blog post about travelling to the Sunshine Coast with an electric vehicle .

Planning to bring your vehicle?

To bring your vehicle to the Sunshine Coast, you must take a car ferry via BC Ferries’ scheduled service for vehicles and pedestrians from either Vancouver (to  Gibsons ) or Vancouver Island (to  Powell River ). These ferries take all vehicles (including bicycles) as well as foot passengers, and pets are welcome, too. Check the  BC Ferries website  for information on fares, schedules, ship amenities, and services.

Reservations are available, but not required, on most Sunshine Coast sailings to and from Vancouver and Vancouver Island. Part of the ship is always available on a first-come, first-served basis. Extra sailings are added during peak periods, but reservations can be very helpful during the summer and holidays when you want to sail at a specific time and avoid waits at the terminal.

Once you're on the Sunshine Coast, BC Ferries also provides transportation to Texada Island, Keats Island, Gambier Island, and between the north and south sections of the Sunshine Coast (Earls Cove to Saltery Bay).

You can find up-to-date  webcam footage  of the current conditions at each terminal, along with the  arrival and departure  times of each boat throughout the day.  

Planning to travel by bus, bike, or on foot?

As mentioned above, you can utilize BC Ferries’ scheduled service as a walk on passenger (pedestrian) and bring a bike as well.

There are also other transit options available to you, including the  Sunshine Coast Connector (operating seasonally)—a convenient bus service between downtown Vancouver and the Sunshine Coast (all the way up to Powell River) via select BC Ferry sailings.  Translink  also provides ample service allowing travellers to easily connect from metro Vancouver via the SkyTrain & public bus connections to get to the Horseshoe Bay ferry terminal or the float plane terminals. Translink service between Vancouver and Horseshoe Bay via the  257 Horseshoe Bay Express  or  250 Horseshoe Bay routes  will be your go-to options—just be sure to check ahead for ferry departure times to ensure you make your connection, and take into account that buses may not always be exactly on time.

Never travelled with your bike on the ferry? Not to worry! This short  video  will tell you all you need to know about loading and unloading, as well as where to store your bike during the ride.

Cyclists can buy their tickets at the foot passenger ticket office in Horseshoe Bay—be sure to let them know you are a cyclist. The bike will add an extra $2 to your foot passenger cost. You should then be given directions to the security gate across the street from the ticket office. Walk your bike to the gate and follow signs to the berth. There is a small waiting area for cyclists.

Bikes are loaded before the vehicles. Watch for directions from staff. You will be asked to walk your bike across the loading ramp, and can mount the bike in a rack once you’re on the main ferry deck.

If you don’t plan to bring a car, skip the boat altogether with a short flight. Not only is flying quick and convenient, but it’s a beautiful way to experience more of the Sunshine Coast’s landscape.

Flying from Vancouver? You can fly direct from Vancouver International Airport (YVR) to  Powell River  via  Pacific Coastal Airlines  or to  Sechelt  via  Harbour Air   or  Fly! Coastal  . You can also fly straight from downtown Vancouver to Sechelt or Powell River with Harbour Air.

Flying from Vancouver Island? Both  Sunshine Coast Air   and  Harbour Air  operate regular floatplane flights from Victoria and Nanaimo to Sechelt. Pacific Coastal Airlines  operates regular flights from Victoria to Powell River.

Flying from the United States? Kenmore Air offers seasonal floatplane flights from Washington State to Sunshine Coast destinations such as Desolation Sound, and Harbour Air  flies from Seattle (Lake Union) to downtown Vancouver, where you can then catch a flight to Sechelt or Powell River. 

The Sunshine Coast is home to a variety of marinas , as well as plenty of beautiful anchorages. Come and discover vibrant communities and bucket list-worthy boating destinations such as Desolation Sound and Princess Louisa Inlet .

Visit the AhoyBC website to start charting your course. 

Getting Around

Highway 101, also known as the Sunshine Coast Highway, connects the communities of the Sunshine Coast. If you have your own vehicle, travelling within the region is as simple as putting wheels to the pavement. Our highway is suitable for all vehicle types, from motorcycles to large commercial trucks. Current road conditions can be viewed on  DriveBC , where you can view highway webcams and construction and incident notices.

Other transportation options include buses, shuttles, ride hailing, car sharing, cycling, and even water taxis.

BC Transit  offers regular bus transit service on the Southern Sunshine Coast between the BC Ferries terminal in Langdale and  Halfmoon Bay , including many stops in between in  Gibsons,   Roberts Creek , &  Sechelt.   BC Transit also provides service on the Northern Sunshine Coast , with service throughout the town of Powell River, and limited service to Lund, Stillwater, and occasionally Saltery Bay. Be sure to check schedules when planning your trip. Buses are  wheelchair accessible  and are equipped with bike racks. You can find a bus route map below.

A DayPASS for the bus can be purchased on the ferry at the gift shop, as well as at a number of other locations on the Sunshine Coast. Northern Sunshine Coast fares & where to buy | Southern Sunshine Coast fares & where to buy  

Southern Sunshine Coast Route Map

Northern Sunshine Coast Route Map

Another option for those travelling by bus is to take the  Sunshine Coast Connector , which operates a convenient bus service between downtown Vancouver and the Sunshine Coast through to Powell River via select ferry sailings.

Sunshine Coast Shuttle  is based in Powell River. They can shuttle guests to just about any location on the Northern Sunshine Coast that is reasonably accessible by 4×4 vehicles, including Sunshine Coast Trail access points.

Sechelt Taxi operates on the Southern Sunshine Coast, offering service from Langdale to Egmont. 

Sunshine Coast’s first ride-hailing + delivery service,  Coastal Rides  provides a safe and affordable transportation option on the Sunshine Coast from Port Melon, Langdale and Gibsons on the south coast to Powell River and Lund on the North coast, and all points in between.

Interested in car sharing? The  Coast Car Co-Op  car sharing service on the South Coast has membership options for regular visitors. Save the ferry fees and pick up a car when you’re here, just when you need it. 

The Sunshine Coast also has its first vehicles listed on Turo,  a car sharing marketplace. The vehicles are currently available in the Powell River, Sechelt, and Gibsons areas.

If you plan to explore the Sunshine Coast on two wheels, there are a few tips and tricks to keep in mind to ensure your trip is as safe and enjoyable as possible! If you are disembarking with your bike from the ferry, you will be riding on the road alongside the cars. It is often a good idea to pull to the side and wait until the bulk of the vehicles have offloaded, especially if you are not comfortable riding in close quarters with cars and trucks. This is true regardless of the ferry you are on.

Once you have firmly arrived on land, there are many opportunities to explore. Check out our  cycling  page for more info on routes and bike shops. You can also rent e-bikes and scooters in Gibsons from  Scotty’s Rentals , adding some extra excitement to your travels. Some of the roads can be quite narrow, so please make sure to wear your helmet and familiarize yourself with some safe cycling tips from  Bike Sense .

There are a number of locations on the Sunshine Coast that are only accessible by boat. Making a reservation for water taxis and boat service ahead of time is recommended.

Walk-on transportation to  Gambier Island  and  Keats Island  is provided by  BC Ferries  from the Langdale Ferry Terminal near Gibsons. On the northern section of the Sunshine Coast, BC Ferries operates a car ferry route from the Westview Ferry Terminal (Powell River) to Blubber Bay on Texada Island .

Gibsons Harbour Ferry  and Sunshine Coast Water Taxi offer service from Gibsons to Gambier Island and Keats Island. If you’re heading to Thormanby Island , both  Buccaneer Marina  and  Thormanby Transportation  provide water taxi service.

If you're heading to  Savary Island , Cortes Island, Sarah Point (start of the  Sunshine Coast Trail ) or  Desolation Sound  you can catch a ride with operators such as  Savary Island Ferry ,   Lund Water Taxi , and Terracentric Coastal Adventures . 

Ground transportation to and from all water taxi services is available via  Coastal Rides  on both the northern and southern sections of the Sunshine Coast. You can book your transfer to any of these operators from anywhere on the Sunshine Coast including: Sechelt Airport; Harbour Air and Sunshine Coast Air Terminal in Sechelt; Powell River Airport; any BC Ferries Terminal; or even your local accommodation.

Transportation Listings

Browse through the business listings below to learn more about transportation options on the Sunshine Coast.

Trip Planning

Know before you go.

Planning a trip to the Sunshine Coast? Here’s what you need to know before you go. 

Travel Guide & Maps

Looking for some trip inspiration and planning tools? Check out the Sunshine Coast Travel Guide, as well as a variety…

Visitor Centres

Visitor Centres on the Sunshine Coast that offer professional visitor counselling, helpful travel information and…

Deals & Packages

Explore more of the Sunshine Coast with local travel deals and packages. Check back often for more…

Accessibility

The Sunshine Coast of British Columbia strives to be an inclusive travel destination to people of all abilities. Read…

Business Directory

Browse through directory listings to find accommodations, tour operators, outfitters, retail shops, community services…