Council is encouraging community feedback on a proposed Temporary Local Planning Instrument (TLPI) that would guide where and how renewable energy and battery storage facilities can be developed.
The community are encouraged to have their say on the draft TLPI to ensure it reflects the views, concerns, and ideas of residents, industry, and stakeholders.
Submissions are currently open and will close Monday, 1 September 2025, giving everyone a chance to formally comment on the draft provisions.
Planning and Regulation Councillor Grant Mathers said the proposed TLPI is an interim step to help guide Council's response to the growing number of development applications for large-scale battery storage facilities.
"The region has seen a growing number of enquiries and development applications for battery storage systems and renewable energy projects," Cr Mathers said.
"A Temporary Local Planning Instrument is a faster and temporary planning measure to address urgent or emerging planning matters.
"This proposed TLPI helps ensure we have an appropriate framework in place now, so that future large-scale battery storage facilities are assessed with rigour and clear planning expectations.
"We understand that these types of developments raise important questions for communities, and we want to ensure everyone has the information they need to make a well-informed submission.
"This is your opportunity to provide feedback before any planning changes are made."
Council is also inviting the community to attend a series of information sessions this month to learn more about the TLPI and the submission process.
"These sessions are designed to unpack what's being proposed, what it could mean for our region, and how locals can make a formal submission," Cr Mathers said.
"It's also a chance to speak directly with Council Officers, ask questions, and learn more about the proposed TLPI."
The community information sessions will be held at four locations across the region. Council encourages interested attendees to register their attendance.
Community Information Session Dates:
- Tuesday 12 August - Gracemere – Gracemere Community Centre - https://www.trybooking.com/DEKUW
- Wednesday 13 August – Rockhampton – Walter Reid Cultural Centre - https://www.trybooking.com/DEKVH
- Thursday 14 August – Bouldercombe – Bouldercombe Recreation Complex - https://www.trybooking.com/DEKVO
- Tuesday 19 August – Alton Downs – Alton Downs Hall - https://www.trybooking.com/DEKVU
All sessions will run from 5:30pm to 6:30pm and include a presentation and time for questions.
To view the draft TLPI, lodge a submission, or to register to attend an information session, visit Engage Rockhampton Region: https://bit.ly/40TbPNX
Following community consultation, the TLPI will be finalised by Council and submitted to the Queensland Government Minister for State Development, Infrastructure and Planning for assessment.
