- The Crisafulli Government has released the draft Regional Plan for the Wide Bay Burnett, which sets out the 20-year vision for the region.
- The draft Regional Plan sets a target of delivering up to nearly 49,000 new places to call home for more Queenslanders by 2046.
- Community is invited to have their say on the draft Regional Plan.
- The review is part of the Crisafulli Government's commitment to reset the planning partnership with councils, industry and local communities after years of neglect under the former Labor Government, which failed to plan for rapid population growth across the region.
The Crisafulli Government has unveiled a blueprint for the future growth of the Wide Bay Burnett, releasing the draft Wide Bay Burnett Regional Plan.
The draft Regional Plan sets out the 20-year vision and strategic direction for the region across key themes: housing, thriving economy, agriculture, ecotourism, healthy and liveable communities, and the infrastructure to support future growth.
The draft regional plan sets a target of delivering approximately 48,945 additional homes by 2046, equivalent to around 2,447 homes annually each year.
It also includes the draft Wide Bay Burnett Infrastructure Plan, linking land use and infrastructure planning in one place to support coordinated planning for transport, water, energy, digital connectivity, and social and community infrastructure.
The review is part of the Crisafulli Government's commitment to reset the planning partnership with councils, industry and local communities after years of neglect under the former Labor Government, which failed to plan for rapid population growth across the region.
Queenslanders are invited to have their say on the future of the Wide Bay Burnett regions as the Crisafulli Government continues to deliver on its $31.3 million commitment to deliver 13 new regional plans, with supporting infrastructure plans, across Queensland.
Deputy Premier and Minister for State Development, Infrastructure and Planning, Jarrod Bleijie, said having local voices in the regional planning process was key to a strong plan for the region's future.
"The current Wide Bay Burnett Regional Plan developed by the former Labor Government was not developed in partnership with local government and as a result, was never implemented." Deputy Premier Bleijie said.
"We are resetting the planning partnership with Councils and communities, giving them a seat at the table and a genuine voice in shaping their region's future after being shut out for a decade under Labor.
"This region is one of Queensland's most diverse and productive, and this plan will help support its strengths across agriculture, manufacturing, resources, tourism and emerging industries.
"For the first time, land use planning will also include a supporting infrastructure plan in response to local government and industry feedback."
Member for Nanango Deb Frecklington said the draft Regional Plan recognised the strong connections between communities across the Wide Bay Burnett.
"This plan gives our regional communities confidence that we're listening to them and we have a plan for their future. This is about ensuring better coordination for our long-term infrastructure needs across the region," Ms Frecklington said.
Minister for Primary Industries and Member for Gympie Tony Perrett said coordinated planning was essential to supporting communities, industry and economic growth across the region.
"Whether it's transport, water, energy, digital connectivity, or social and community infrastructure, the Crisafulli Government is ensuring the right planning and coordination is in place to ensure we're building Queensland's future," Minister Perrett said.
Member for Burnett Stephen Bennett said the Crisafulli Government was working with local communities to plan for the region's future growth.
"The Crisafulli Government is listening and working with communities to ensure new homes, infrastructure and jobs are delivered, and ensuring growth is coordinated, efficient and supported by the services people rely on," Mr Bennett said.
Member for Hervey Bay David Lee said the Crisafulli Government was building the region's future through the draft Regional Plan.
"I remember my time as a Councillor, when Labor ran roughshod over communities. The draft Wide Bay Burnett Regional Plan and Infrastructure Plan provides certainty for councils, industry and the community for decades to come, Mr Lee said.
Member for Maryborough John Barounis said delivering critical infrastructure was key to accelerating housing supply and creating jobs.
"This is about giving communities confidence that the ongoing growth of our region will be well planned, supported and focused on improving quality of life for local residents and also the many visitors come to enjoy our beautiful part of Queensland," Mr Barounis said.
Member for Callide Bryson Head said the plan would help ensure growth and infrastructure investment went hand in hand.
"The Wide Bay Burnett is one of Queensland's most productive regions, and this plan recognises the importance of supporting agriculture, industry and regional communities while planning for future growth," Mr Head said.
The draft Wide Bay Burnett Regional Plan and Infrastructure Plan 2026 sets out a long-term vision for the region and includes:
- A clear land-use framework to guide growth and housing supply, supported by infrastructure to 2046.
- Regional infrastructure planning policies, strategies and future planning considerations across transport, water, energy, digital connectivity, and social and community infrastructure.
- Support for economic growth and diversification across urban and rural parts of the region.
- Dwelling supply targets aligned with the Crisafulli Government's goal of one million new homes by 2044.
- Recognition of the region's natural identity, character and outdoor lifestyle, including its ecotourism and biodiversity values.
Public consultation for the draft Wide Bay Burnett Regional Plan and Infrastructure Plan 2026, will run until Monday 14 September 2026.
Submissions will be considered in finalising the plan to ensure it meets the priorities of communities across the region.
To view the plan and provide feedback, visit www.planning.qld.gov.au/wide-bay-burnett-regional-plan
