Official Notice: City Updates and Service Announcements for Saturday, January 31, 2026

Community Consultation: City Budget 2026–27

The City of Gold Coast has officially opened community consultation for the 2026–27 Annual Budget. Residents and business owners are invited to provide feedback on the proposed allocation of funds for essential services, including infrastructure maintenance, community safety, and environmental protection. This consultation period allows the public to have a direct say in how municipal resources are prioritized for the upcoming financial year. Written submissions can be made through the City’s online portal or at designated council administration centers until the close of the consultation period.

Public Health Advisory: Respiratory and Viral Vigilance

Gold Coast Health continues to advise residents to remain vigilant regarding infectious diseases circulating within the community. Public health officials have noted a continued presence of Pertussis (whooping cough) across the region. Parents and caregivers are encouraged to ensure that childhood immunizations are up to date and that adults in contact with infants receive necessary booster shots. Additionally, following a national rise in measles cases attributed to summer travel, residents are reminded to monitor for symptoms such as high fever, cough, and a characteristic spotty rash. Anyone experiencing symptoms is urged to contact their healthcare provider ahead of time to arrange a socially distanced consultation.

Traffic and Infrastructure: Weekend Road Closures

Several major construction and utility projects will impact traffic flow across the Gold Coast this Saturday, January 31. Motorists are advised to plan for delays in the following areas:

• Ormeau: Prairie Road remains under full closure to facilitate essential site access and works for the Queensland Train Manufacturing Program at the Ormeau Rail Facility. This closure is expected to continue through early February.
• Southport: Knowledge Street is closed to all through traffic for ongoing construction activities. Local access is maintained under the direction of traffic controllers.
• Palm Beach to Tugun: Long-term infrastructure works as part of the M1 Upgrade Project (Package C) continue. Expect multiple lane shifts and reduced speed limits along the M1 and surrounding feeder streets.
• Upper Coomera: Kristins Lane is subject to partial closures and traffic diversions to allow for the installation of critical water and stormwater services.

Civic Recognition: 2026 Australian of the Year Nominations

The City of Gold Coast is now accepting nominations for the 2026 Gold Coast Australian of the Year Awards. These awards recognize residents who have made significant contributions to the local community across various categories, including the Young Australian of the Year and Senior Australian of the Year. Official forms are available on the City’s website, with the nomination period active throughout January. Residents are encouraged to nominate individuals who demonstrate leadership, innovation, or dedicated community service.