Toowoomba Regional Council (TRC) this week (Tuesday, June 17, 2025) endorsed a suite of revised Development Incentive Policies aimed at boosting strategic investment, housing supply, tourism, employment and economic activity across the Region.
TRC Economic Development portfolio spokesperson Cr Edwina Farquhar said the new policies highlighted Council's commitment to encourage additional investment in key parts of the Region's economy.
"Council plays a vital role in shaping the future of our communities, and these policies are about unlocking investment, supporting diverse housing, creating jobs, and encouraging development that delivers benefits for our residents," Cr Farquhar said.
The updated framework includes six revised Development Incentive Policies and one new policy, with a focus on housing diversity, regional vitality, tourism growth and economic opportunity.
A further existing policy has been extended to continue supporting intensive horticulture ̶ an industry that is vital to the Region's economy.
"This new policy suite sets a clear, consistent, and forward-looking foundation for development across our Region," Cr Farquhar said.
"It streamlines the application process, improves clarity for developers, and strengthens our ability to respond to emerging needs, while ensuring strong financial stewardship."
From July 1, 2025, all policies will operate under a consistent structure with a combined annual cap to manage allocation and improve transparency.
Early incentive confirmation processes, simplified eligibility criteria, and targeted communication will further support developers in navigating the incentive process.
Among the key incentives endorsed:
Niche Tourism Incentive
Designed to attract ecotourism, agritourism, Indigenous and adventure-based tourism ventures, this new policy supports developments aligned with the Toowoomba Region's character and growing visitor economy. It aligns directly with the recent release of Tourism and Events Queensland's Destination 2045 strategy, which identifies ecotourism and agritourism as major growth opportunities.
"Toowoomba is uniquely positioned to lead in experience-based tourism," Cr Farquhar said.
"This incentive encourages investment in exactly the kinds of projects highlighted in Queensland's 2045 Destination strategy, which will place our Region firmly on the national tourism map.
"In conjunction with the Development Incentive, our Economic Development branch will be rolling out a series of initiatives to support niche tourism start-ups and to assist existing businesses diversify."
Central Toowoomba Development Incentive
This policy supports high-impact projects in the city's core, including residential developments, 4-5-star hotels, conference venues, and heritage reuse. It aligns with the city's evolving role as a regional centre and its contribution to the Brisbane 2032 Olympics and Paralympic Games.
Medium Density Housing Incentive
Targeting a broader range of housing options, this policy responds to demographic shifts and aims to improve housing diversity, affordability and choice across our communities.
Regional Townships and Communities Incentive
Focused on revitalising smaller communities, this policy supports key services, new housing, healthcare, and rural employment-generating industries.
Non-Residential Development Incentive
Encouraging industrial and commercial development, this policy supports economic diversification and job creation across strategic employment sectors.
Not-for-Profit Community Uses Incentive
Consolidating two previous programs, this streamlined policy offers support for community groups, charities and emergency services developing critical local infrastructure.
Intensive Horticulture Incentive
The existing incentive for intensive horticulture will continue under its current conditions until December 30, 2025, providing support for rural industry investment while Council explores opportunities to broaden the policy's scope in the future to include additional intensive rural sectors.
"Agriculture is the lifeblood of our Region, evidenced by our position as the best performing agricultural region in Queensland based on our Gross Value of Production," Cr Farquhar said.
"This policy extension shows our ongoing commitment to supporting innovation and expansion in horticulture and other rural sectors."
Cr Farquhar said the new policy framework supports Council's broader vision for a development-ready, business-friendly Region.
"These incentives reduce barriers to investment and give Council a smart, transparent and adaptable platform to attract high-value projects. Whether it's a boutique eco-lodge, a vibrant urban precinct, or new homes in our rural towns, these policies are about making it happen," Cr Farquhar said.
The Development Incentive Policies will run for three years from July 1, 2025 to June 30, 2028, aligning with the current local government term.
Ongoing performance monitoring, annual reviews and industry engagement will ensure the program remains responsive, effective, and aligned with regional priorities.
Details about the Development Incentive Policies will be updated on Council's website soon.
