Western Downs Regional Council Community Benefit Agreements set benchmark for powering renewable energy investment and empowering communities.
On 24 April 2026, Council formalised its first Community Benefit Agreement (CBA) with Goombi Energy Holdings Pty Ltd as part of the proposed Goombi Renewable Energy Hub, cementing the region's reputation as a leader in community-focussed development and sustainable economic growth.
Under the Planning (Social Impact and Community Benefit) and Other Legislation Amendment Act 2025, all new large-scale wind, solar and battery-storage developments are required to enter into a Community Benefit Agreement with local government prior to applying for development approval through the State Assessment and Referral Agency (SARA).
The successful execution of the first CBA marks the culmination of months of work between Council, Goombi Holdings and local residents to ensure that the communities most affected by the proposed development will see meaningful, lasting social and economic benefits shaped by local priorities.
Western Downs Regional Council Mayor, Cr Andrew Smith, said that Council's approach reflects its commitment to collaboration and to ensuring that communities share in the benefits of the energy developments they host.
"The Western Downs is a 21st century powerhouse for a reason," Mayor Smith said.
"We're known as The Energy Capital of Queensland, but we're also home to thriving towns, and strong agricultural and manufacturing sectors. Our success comes from years of experience, first with the resources sector and now renewable energy, and we've learnt that industry, communities and council are all stronger when we work together.
"Community Benefit Agreements aren't just about mitigating the impacts of development; they're about delivering long-term outcomes that matter to local people, for the life of the project and beyond.
"Council has long worked to establish the Western Downs as an ideal place for investment, including a clear expectation that large corporations act as 'good neighbours' to the communities and landholders impacted by their developments. The changes to the Planning Act simply required us to build on the solid foundation of collaboration and coexistence that we'd already built."
Mayor Smith said that there are a number of other proposed renewable energy developments across the region currently at various stages of developing Community Benefit Agreements. Residents are encouraged to participate in engagement activities led by developers, where available, to help ensure that local priorities and perspectives continue to be clearly reflected in future agreements.
