Sunshine Coast · Queensland
Scuba Diving at ex-HMAS Brisbane
A former guided missile destroyer scuttled off Mooloolaba and prepared specifically for divers.
The ex-HMAS Brisbane was scuttled off Mooloolaba in 2005 as a dedicated dive attraction, and it remains one of Australia's most approachable large wreck dives.
Because the vessel was prepared specifically for diving, access points were cut and hazards removed, which makes the wreck considerably more forgiving than a historic loss.
The depth range suits both experienced recreational divers and those working toward deeper certifications, and the superstructure sits comfortably within recreational limits.
Recommended: Advanced Open Water Diver. Parts of the site reach 28 m, which needs Advanced Open Water, ideally with the Deep specialty. What can I dive with my cert?
Max depth
28 m
typically 24 m
Access
boat
Current
variable
Water temp
20–26°C
Level
intermediate
up to advanced
| Region | Sunshine Coast |
|---|---|
| State | Queensland |
| Access | boat |
| Site type | wreck |
| Minimum depth | 16 m |
| Typical depth | 24 m |
| Maximum depth | 28 m |
| Current | variable |
| Visibility | Commonly 10–25 m |
| Water temperature | Roughly 20–26°C |
| Experience level | intermediate, advanced |
These are guidance categories, not guarantees. Conditions on the day, and an operator’s own requirements, override any classification here.
- schooling baitfish and trevally
- wobbegongs
- soft coral and sponge colonisation
- lionfish
- occasional turtles and rays
- grey nurse sharks occasionally in cooler months
The wreck was made safer for diving, but penetration is still a distinct activity with its own training requirements.
External touring of a 133-metre vessel is more than enough for most divers, and covering it properly takes several dives.
The superstructure sits shallow enough for well-managed recreational diving, while the seabed depth gives divers working toward deep and wreck qualifications somewhere genuine to apply them.
Nitrox is particularly worthwhile here given the repetitive profile.
Access
- Boat access from Mooloolaba.
- A dive permit is required and is typically handled by the operator.
- Mooring lines are provided for descent and ascent.
- Since Tropical Cyclone Alfred in March 2025 shifted the forward funnel onto the sand, operators have been running dives on the wreck as external-only. Check whether penetration has resumed before planning an internal route.
Hazards
- depth and limited no-decompression time at the seabed
- current across the wreck
- overhead if penetration is undertaken
- disorientation around a large structure
Businesses documented as regularly diving this site.
Sunreef MooloolabaMooloolabaPADIThe Sunshine Coast's only PADI 5 Star IDC, with roots to 1976 and three dive vessels running the ex-HMAS Brisbane, Flinders Reef and humpback whale swims.BoatCoursesAdvancedProNitroxHireSource-backed profile
Scuba World MooloolabaMooloolabaSSIA Mooloolaba SSI Instructor Training Center with air, Nitrox and oxygen, Extended Range and rebreather programmes, and boat trips to up to 15 local reef sites.BoatCoursesAdvancedProTechNitroxSource-backed profileUseful Training for Diving ex-HMAS Brisbane
Not a list of everything available — the qualifications that actually change what you can do at this site.
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Dive Sites Near ex-HMAS Brisbane
Other documented sites within range, nearest first — useful for building a trip rather than a single dive.
Other Dive Businesses Near ex-HMAS Brisbane
Not documented as servicing this site, but close enough to be useful for fills, hire or advice.
ex-HMAS Brisbane Diving FAQs
How deep is ex-HMAS Brisbane?
Depths range from around 16 metres to roughly 28 metres, with a typical profile around 24 metres. Conditions and route selection change this considerably.
Is ex-HMAS Brisbane suitable for beginners?
Better suited to divers with some experience beyond entry level, particularly in the local conditions. Discuss your recent diving honestly with the operator rather than relying on certification alone.
How do you get to ex-HMAS Brisbane?
Boat access from Mooloolaba. A dive permit is required and is typically handled by the operator.
Is there current at ex-HMAS Brisbane?
Current is recorded as variable. Conditions vary daily and should be checked close to the day.
What will I see at ex-HMAS Brisbane?
Commonly reported marine life includes schooling baitfish and trevally, wobbegongs, soft coral and sponge colonisation, lionfish, occasional turtles and rays, grey nurse sharks occasionally in cooler months. Sightings are never guaranteed.
When is the best time to dive ex-HMAS Brisbane?
Conditions vary through the year. Visibility is commonly 10–25 m. Check with local operators close to your dates.
Where is ex-HMAS Brisbane?
ex-HMAS Brisbane is in the Sunshine Coast region of Queensland.
Last researched: September 2026. Dive businesses change frequently — confirm current services, prices and requirements directly with the operator before booking.