Residents have been told to ignore "misleading political propaganda" after Coast politicians pushed for heavy rail to be prioritised over light rail.
Transport and Main Roads Minister Mark Bailey blasted Sunshine Coast politicians for urging Sunshine Coast Council to prioritise heavy rail, before throwing support behind a local light rail network.
Kawana MP Jarrod Bleijie said the region could not have both a heavy rail connection to Brisbane and local light rail.
"We're saying people should have their say but the priority of rail on the Sunshine Coast should be from Beerwah to Maroochydore," Mr Bleijie said.
"The reality is if the council has its way (heavy rail) won't happen."