Coastal ecosystems have been so degraded by anthropogenic activities that conventional restoration methods may be insufficient in halting widespread habitat loss. While industrial development in coastal areas may be necessary for ensuring economic progress, innovative approaches are required to enhance the ecological value of coastal infrastructure and reduce impact to critical marine habitats. Multidisciplinary coastal management initiatives involving collaboration between industry, government, and research organisations, can facilitate the development of novel habitat restoration solutions that mitigate the impacts of coastal development and reverse habitat loss trends. The results of a ‘living seawall’ trial in the Port of Gladstone demonstrate how incorporating mangrove habitat creation methods into seawall design can contribute to restoration objectives. A combined aquaria and field study on Rhizophora stylosa propagule root development mechanisms revealed how direct seeding of propagules could be an effective, scalable approach for promoting mangrove establishment. Deployment of biodegradable bamboo structures increased rates of propagule retention and establishment, sediment accretion rates, and crab burrow numbers, compared to areas of bare sediment. Observations on the benthic macroinvertebrate fauna within novel substrate placed in the intertidal zone provide insight into the natural rate of recovery of a benthic ecosystem supported by the mangroves following restoration efforts.