Protections for World Surfing Reserves in Queensland
Queensland is home to some of the world’s most-loved surfing destinations. Surfing is a vital part of Queensland’s coastal lifestyle, a major tourism drawcard, and a growing Olympic sport.
World Surfing Reserves
Save the Waves Coalition, a non-governmental organisation, launched the initiative to dedicate World Surfing Reserves (WSR) in 2009. WSRs are globally significant surfing sites, recognised for their unique environments, rich surf culture, and importance to Traditional Owners, local communities and visitors.
Queensland is proud to be home to two of the 14 designated WSRs. The Gold Coast World Surfing Reserve was dedicated in 2016, and stretches from Burleigh Heads to Coolangatta. The Noosa WSR was dedicated in 2020 and extends from North Sunshine Beach, around the Noosa Headland to Laguna Bay.
With surfing set to showcase Queensland’s iconic beaches on the global stage during the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games, these reserves highlight the state’s reputation as a world-class destination for ecotourism, recreation and natural beauty.
Protection and management of surfing reserves
A fact sheet about Queensland’s WSRs 1.5 MB) outlines the Queensland Government’s commitments to preserve these special places. The Queensland Government has strong regulations in place including protections for coastal processes, water quality, ecosystem health, biodiversity, vegetation, and cultural heritage. Key Queensland legislation that safeguards our world-class surf breaks include:
- Environmental Protection Act 1994 (e.g. pollution control)
- Coastal Protection and Management Act 1995 (e.g. erosion and development)
- Nature Conservation Act 1992 (e.g. protection of flora)
- Fisheries Act 1994 (e.g. protection of marine plants)
- Planning Act 2016 and State Planning Policy (e.g. coastal development)
- Local planning schemes under Queensland’s planning framework.
Each World Surfing Reserve is required to establish a local stewardship committee and stewardship plan to support management of the reserve. Local stewardship committees for the Noosa and Gold Coast World Surfing Reserves have been established. Membership comprises:
- relevant government representatives
- sport and recreation organisations and clubs, such as local surfing and surf lifesaving clubs
- local community groups
- members of regional chambers of commerce.
The Queensland Government will continue to work closely with Traditional Custodians, local communities, the Save the Waves Coalition, and other stakeholders to protect and promote Queensland’s WSRs. By safeguarding these iconic reserves, the Queensland Government is ensuring future generations can continue to enjoy the world-class surf, pristine environments, and cultural heritage that make Queensland’s WSRs truly unique.