Upgrades to Sydney’s Coogee Beach aim to divert pollutants further offshore

Locals have known for years that stormwater pollution has been letting Sydney’s popular beach Coogee down, with Beachwatch consistently rating the beach as 'Poor'.

The NSW Government and Randwick City Council are delivering $7 million to clean up Coogee benefitting locals and visiting beachgoers alike.

The 2025-2026 state budget includes $3 million to deliver this project in partnership with Randwick City Council and Sydney Water.

The NSW 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.

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, significantly improving water quality and reducing 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.

NSW Minister for Water Rose Jackson shared "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.

"We're putting an end to this shitty situation once and for all so everyone can enjoy one the best beaches in the world.

"We're delivering the public infrastructure locals deserve, clean water, safe swimming and a beach the community can be proud of."

Marjorie O'Neill, Member for Coogee shared "this is a win for our community, who have long called for action to clean up Coogee Beach. I'm proud to have worked alongside residents, council and Sydney Water to secure this investment and deliver real improvements to one of the best beaches in the world.

"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."

Mayor of Randwick, Dylan Parker added "Coogee Beach is not only a popular coastal destination for visitors; it holds a special place in the hearts of local residents.

"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".

Paul Plowman, Acting Chief Executive Sydney Water advised "Sydney Water is pleased to be part of this important project to improve water quality and protect public health at Coogee Beach.

"By diverting stormwater away from the swimming area, we can make a meaningful difference to the beach environment and visitor experience."

Main image: Sydney's Coogee Beach Credit: Destination NSW.