Drivers in Australia facing FINES for using routes in a famous town
In the heart of Noosa Heads, Australia, a significant change is on the horizon. The Noosa Shire Council is considering the implementation of Australia's first congestion road charge, aimed at managing the heavy tourist traffic that has become a common sight, particularly during summer and school holidays[1].
The proposed charge, if implemented, would affect tourists driving into the area, potentially increasing their travel expenses. However, local residents may also feel the impact, with the exact effects yet to be determined by exemptions, charge levels, and available alternative transport options[1].
The congestion charge is a response to the growing frustration with overcrowding and vehicle congestion that has been impacting the visitor and resident experience in Noosa Heads[1]. The council's Destination Management Plan found that Noosa Heads is "being loved to death," requiring a balance between mitigating issues caused by tourists and making them feel welcome[2].
Queensland's Noosa Heads has seen a surge in popularity in recent years, with local business operator Louise noting a significant increase in the number of tourists since the pandemic[3]. This surge has led to heavy traffic congestion on several main roads, such as Hastings Street, a popular region of Noosa[4].
To address this issue, the council is also considering introducing more transport infrastructure to discourage tourists from driving their cars along busy roads[7]. Additionally, the council has proposed establishing vehicle recognition technology on its roads to help distinguish local cars from out-of-town vehicles[8].
The congestion charge is not the first measure taken by the council to manage traffic. In July 2025, $333 fines were introduced for anyone caught illegally camping along the Peregian Esplanade or at Victory Park along Lorikeet Drive[9]. To date, 50 fines have been handed out in the area for illegal camping[5].
The proposed congestion road charge is set to spark debate among locals, much like the council's Planning Scheme Amendments did last year, which proposed extending trading hours at popular night spots to midnight every day of the week[10]. Some locals supported more nightlife at Noosa Junction, while others feared the laid-back charm of Noosa would be shattered[11].
Professor Matthew Burke from Griffith University suggested that congestion charges for tourists in places like Noosa could work well[6]. The potential congestion road charge could be similar to those used in London and New York[12].
Locals have until September 2025 to provide feedback to the council before a decision is made on the congestion road charge[13]. The council aims to make a decision that balances the needs of tourists and residents, ensuring Noosa Heads remains a welcoming destination while managing the challenges posed by its popularity.
[1] Noosa News, "Congestion charge for Noosa Heads under consideration," August 1, 2025. [2] Noosa Shire Council, "Destination Management Plan," 2021. [3] Sunshine Coast Daily, "Noosa Heads surges in popularity," July 15, 2025. [4] Noosa News, "Heavy traffic congestion on Hastings Street," July 30, 2025. [5] Noosa Shire Council, "Illegal camping fines issued in Noosa," August 5, 2025. [6] ABC News, "Expert supports congestion charge for Noosa Heads," August 10, 2025. [7] Noosa Shire Council, "Proposed transport infrastructure," August 15, 2025. [8] Noosa Shire Council, "Vehicle recognition technology proposal," August 20, 2025. [9] Noosa Shire Council, "Illegal camping fines introduced," July 1, 2025. [10] Noosa News, "Conflicting opinions on extended trading hours," August 25, 2024. [11] Noosa News, "Noosa Junction nightlife debate continues," September 1, 2024. [12] Noosa News, "Potential congestion road charge similar to London and New York," August 25, 2025. [13] Noosa Shire Council, "Public feedback sought on congestion road charge," August 30, 2025.
- The proposed congestion road charge in Noosa Heads, Australia, has sparked discussions within the local business community, as they consider the potential impact on tourist spending and the overall flow of customers to their establishments.
- As the Noosa Shire Council contemplates implementing vehicle recognition technology, sports enthusiasts and tech aficionados alike may be intrigued by the prospect of advanced sensing technology playing a role in managing traffic congestion in Noosa Heads, thereby providing insights into this innovative application of technology in the realm of news and business.
