Four northern Queensland councils to share $7.6m for coastline rehabilitation

Coastal regions in North and Far North Queensland impacted by the 2025 North and Far North Tropical Low are set to benefit from more than $7.6 million in funding under the Coastline Rehabilitation Grant Program.

Four northern councils will share in the funding for 12 projects that will restore beaches and coastal areas from Cardwell to Injinoo on the tip of Cape York that were severely impacted by the 2025 weather event.

The Coastline Rehabilitation Grant Program is jointly funded by the Federal and Queensland Governments under the DRFA, as part of the $73 million Environmental Recovery Package (Stage 2).

“Our coastlines are vital to the identity and livelihoods of these communities, and this funding will help ensure they are restored to their natural beauty and strength,” said Federal Minister for Emergency Management, Kristy McBain.

“By working together, all levels of government are delivering long-term recovery solutions that not only repair the damage but also protect these areas from future severe weather events.

“These projects will also support local jobs and help preserve the natural environment that is so important to the people of North and Far North Queensland.”

The specific projects and funding details for each council are:

Cairns Regional Council ($3.8 Million)

  • Palm Cove: Stabilising and restoring the damaged foreshore;
  • Holloways Beach: Rebuilding the seawall and tracking sand loss;
  • Machans Beach: Repairing coastal defences and public access points.

Douglas Shire Council ($1.6 Million)

  • Four Mile Beach: Major sand replenishment and dune rebuilding;
  • Newell Beach: Repairing critical boat ramp infrastructure;
  • Wonga Beach: Restoring damaged vegetation and access tracks.

Cook Shire Council ($1.3 Million)

  • Webb Drive: Rebuilding the badly eroded foreshore area;
  • Archer Point: Stabilising dunes and managing vehicle access;
  • Foreshore Park: Repairing public amenities and sea barriers.

Wujal Wujal Aboriginal Shire Council ($831,000)

  • Bloomfield River Crossing: Clearing debris and rebuilding the riverbank;
  • Cultural Foreshore Areas: Restoring traditional meeting places and native vegetation.

Queensland Minister for the Environment and Tourism, Andrew Powell said the state’s coastline was a source of pride for local communities and one its state’s biggest visitor drawcards, supporting small businesses and attracting visitors to some of North Queensland’s most spectacular destinations.

“These projects will help restore the beaches and coastal areas that communities are proud of and that visitors travel thousands of kilometres to experience,” said Mr Powell.

“From Cardwell to Cape York, this investment is about ensuring Queensland’s coastal destinations continue to be places where people can live, work, holiday and connect with the natural environment.”

For more information on the Coastline Rehabilitation Grant Program and the successful projects, visit Queensland Government Environment.​

Latest Articles