Incentive measures attract second major hotel investment
Second development application for a luxury hotel approved as part of the Accommodation Hotel Incentive Measures. Crowne Plaza Maroochydore construction starts April 2026 – delivering 180 rooms, event spaces and apartments to boost tourism and business.
Artist impression of Crowne Plaza Maroochydore
Construction of Crowne Plaza, in the heart of Maroochydore’s Ocean Street, will commence in April next year following Sunshine Coast Council’s approval of the Development Application on Friday 5 December.
Sunshine Coast Mayor Rosanna Natoli said Crowne Plaza will be an important addition to the region’s tourism and business sector.
“This is the second hotel to be approved under the Sunshine Coast Council’s Accommodation Hotel Incentive Measures, and it reaffirms our commitment to address a major shortfall in hotel rooms ,” Mayor Natoli said.
“The Sunshine Coast requires more than 2,400 additional hotel rooms, or around 10 new hotels, to support our tourism industry into the future.
“Council took a bold step to create incentives, and it is having an impact. Crowne Plaza ticks every box in terms of providing important tourism infrastructure to boost our region’s appeal as a year-round destination and we look forward to construction commencing in April next year."
Sunshine Coast Council Division 8 Councillor Taylor Bunnag said the investment in Ocean Street was welcomed.
“It will help to enhance this precinct as a vibrant and exciting destination for locals and visitors,” Councillor Bunnag said.
Michael Maroun, Director at Felix Capital praised Sunshine Coast Council for their support during the Development Application to ensure there were no delays in the approvals process.
“This is an incredible announcement for Maroochydore and the Sunshine Coast. Crowne Plaza will provide much needed leisure and business tourism accommodation as well as community entertainment facilities for the region when it opens in 2028,” he said.
Crowne Plaza Maroochydore will feature 180 guest rooms alongside more than 900 square metres of premium, flexible meeting and event space including a 600sqm ballroom. The hotel will also include a 30-metre pool and spa, gym, sauna, and secure basement parking across two levels. Its food and beverage offering will include an all-day restaurant and a 160-seat signature dining venue, as well as an outdoor pool bar and lounge alongside a lobby bar.
Part of this development and sitting atop the hotel, AER Residence will feature 24 luxury two- and three-bedroom apartments over four floors.
Construction of Crowne Plaza Maroochydore is expected to commence in April 2026 and is scheduled for completion in 2028.
Read more about the targeted set of planning provisions introduced by Council to encourage the development of upscale hotels.