Gold Coast Light Rail History

Gold Coast Light Rail Construction in Surfers Paradise - June 2013 The Gold Coast Light Rail (G:link) is Queensland’s only light rail system. Its history stretches back to the mid-1990s when rapid population growth highlighted the need for better public transport on the Gold Coast.

Early Planning (1990s – 2010)

The idea for light rail first appeared in the Gold Coast City Council Transport Plan 1998. After considering monorail, bus rapid transit, and other options, light rail was chosen because it could move more passengers, reduce traffic congestion, and lower pollution compared to buses. A major three-year feasibility study (funded by federal, state, and local governments) was completed in 2004. It confirmed that light rail was the best solution for the city’s growing transport needs. Construction was planned in stages, starting with the highest-demand areas. However, the project faced significant delays due to property acquisitions, community opposition, and the need to relocate facilities such as the Queens Park Tennis Club and Southport Croquet Club. Gold Coast Light Rail Bridge at Griffith University

Stage 1 (2011 – 2014)

In May 2011, the GoldlinQ consortium was awarded the contract to design, build, and operate Stage 1. Major construction began in January 2012.

  • Length: 13 km
  • Stations: 16 (later part of 19)
  • Opened: 20 July 2014

Stage 1 transformed connectivity between the Health & Knowledge Precinct, Southport, Surfers Paradise, and Broadbeach.

Stage 2 (2016 – 2017)

  • Length: 7.3 km extension
  • Opened: 17 December 2017
  • Extension: North to Helensvale with heavy rail integration to Brisbane
  • Network: ~27 km with 27 stations (after Stage 3)
Gold Coast University Hospital Station

Stage 3 (2022 – 2026)

Stage 3 is the largest expansion yet — a 6.7 km extension from Broadbeach South to Burleigh Heads.

  • New Stations: 8
  • Opened: 9 August 2026
  • Total Network: 27 km with 27 stations

Stage 3 Stations (North to South):

  1. Mermaid Beach
  2. Mermaid Beach South
  3. Christine Avenue
  4. Miami North
  5. Miami
  6. Nobby Beach
  7. Second Avenue
  8. Burleigh Heads (southern terminus)Terminus

Today’s Gold Coast Light Rail (2026)

  • Fare: Flat 50 cents per journey
  • Frequency: Every 7–10 minutes in peak
  • Weekends: 24-hour service
  • Fleet: Modern trams with free Wi-Fi and air-conditioning
  • Route: Scenic coastal line for locals and tourists

See also