Gold Coast Light Rail Now Connects Broadbeach and Burleigh Heads

Trams now run south of Broadbeach for the first time. The Queensland Government confirmed in August 2026 that Gold Coast Light Rail Stage 3 would open to passengers, as reported by ABC News.

The extension

Status: completed and open. Stage 3 is a 6.7-kilometre extension linking Broadbeach and Burleigh Heads, with eight new stops including Mermaid Beach, Miami and Christine Avenue.

ABC News reported that construction began in July 2022 and that the project's final cost was about $1.55 billion — well above the $709 million originally estimated. Transport Minister Brent Mickelberg said 50-cent fares would continue across the network.

What it means for locals

• Easier trips along the coast: residents of Mermaid Beach, Miami and Burleigh Heads can now connect by tram with Broadbeach, Surfers Paradise and Southport.
• Relief for traders: businesses along the corridor were affected by years of construction. Local representatives encouraged residents to support clubs and traders along the route now that services are running.
• Planning questions: the City of Gold Coast's deputy mayor said the extension would not mean Surfers Paradise-style towers continuing down the coast.

ABC News also reported that a planned light rail extension to the airport will not proceed, with a bus service proposed instead.

Check TransLink for current timetables and stop information before you travel.