Understanding of nearshore wave characteristics is fundamental for many aspects of the study and management of the coastal zone. To facilitate this on the NSW coast a program of nearshore wave data collection was initiated to improve understanding of wave conditions where they directly influence coastal processes and hazards and to provide critical data for wave modelling validation. This program commenced in 2016 and has to date collected over 12,700 days of data at 25 different locations in shallow waters (<35m) along the length of the NSW coast. Along with measuring and quantifying long term nearshore wave conditions the program has captured several extreme storm events, including the Black NE Storm (2016) and Tropical Cyclone Alfred (2025). Many deployment locations have been short to medium duration however several are longer term to support and enhance long term coastal monitoring efforts, i.e. Collaroy and Bengello beaches. Recently, selected long-term deployments from the program have been incorporated into the IMOS Coastal Wave Buoys Facility and are providing wave data from four permanent sites in addition to continuing deployments at other locations to fill knowledge gaps and complement other coastal studies. All wave data collected is freely available via various databases and websites.