The New South Wales Government, Sydney Water, and Randwick City Council are getting on with the job of fixing Coogee Beach’s long-standing water quality issues, delivering $7 million to clean up one of Sydney’s most iconic beaches.
“Coogee Beach is not only a popular coastal destination for visitors; it holds a special place in the hearts of local residents,” Randwick City Council Mayor Dylan Parker said. “This project will address a long-standing issue important to our local community, delivering a better experience for everyone at the beach and in the water, and is a significant step towards protecting our beautiful coastline”.
Locals and visiting beachgoers alike are set to benefit as the NSW Government continues its work to ensure that local communities have not only the essential services and housing they need, but also thriving environments and free recreational spaces to enjoy.
“People love Coogee, but they’re rightly sick of the impacts of pollution when it rains. This is an overdue fix to a problem that’s been ignored for too long,” NSW Minister for Water Rose Jackson said. “We’re putting an end to this shitty situation once and for all so everyone can enjoy one the best beaches in the world.”
Locals have known for years that stormwater pollution has been affecting Coogee, with Beachwatch consistently rating the beach as ‘Poor’. The 2025-2026 state budget includes $3 million to deliver this project in partnership with Randwick City Council and Sydney Water.
“Improving water quality isn’t just about the environment—it’s about public health, it’s about tourism, and it’s about ensuring one of NSW’s most iconic beaches lives up to its name every day of the year,” Member for Coogee Marjorie O’Neill said.
The New South Wales Government are pushing ahead with the upgrade, with works set to begin this year, with the construction of a new pump station and pressure mains.
“Sydney Water is pleased to be part of this important project to improve water quality and protect public health at Coogee Beach,” Sydney Water Acting Chief Executive Paul Plowman said.
“By diverting stormwater away from the swimming area, we can make a meaningful difference to the beach environment and visitor experience.”
Once complete, stormwater will be diverted away from Coogee and discharged further offshore. That means no more stormwater flowing across the beach after every downpour, which significantly improves water quality and reduces public health risks.
This is about making Coogee swimmable all year round and delivering the water quality that locals, families and visitors expect from a world-class beach.
This is a vital investment in critical public infrastructure that will improve the environment, protect public health and make one of Sydney’s greatest beaches even better.