The Queensland Government has delivered a new regional plan for Far North Queensland to drive the mining and resources sector.
The plan intends to balance new housing, jobs, and economic development for the Far North region, developed in partnership with the region’s eight local councils to boost growth opportunities in agriculture, critical minerals, and tourism.
The Far North Queensland Regional Plan and Infrastructure Plan 2026 also includes planning for over 48,485 additional homes by 2046, infrastructure priorities, recognition of the region’s importance as a ‘northern gateway’, improved policy and targeted urban footprint expansions, and policies addressing infrastructure resilience in natural disasters.
This plan is the first rolled out of 13 new regional plans for the state, with the intention of making Queensland ‘open for business again’.
Deputy Premier and Minister for State Development, Infrastructure and Planning Jarrod Bleijie says the plan was developed closely with local councils and communities.
“This is a long‑term blueprint genuinely shaped by local voices and designed to guide growth, infrastructure, and jobs across the region for the next 20 years,” Bleijie says.
“At its core, this plan is about making sure Far North Queensland is a place of opportunity, by accommodating growth, delivering more housing, supporting key industries, strengthening tourism, and driving economic development by creating more jobs now and into the future.
“Local councils have been central to this work, bringing their deep understanding of their communities and helping shape a practical, region‑led plan that they support and are ready to implement.
“This is a Plan the region can be proud of — one that provides confidence and certainty for communities and industry today and leaves a strong legacy for future generations who will live, work, and raise families in Far North Queensland.”
Member for Mulgrave Terry James says this plan will “set the framework” to guide all other planning schemes across the state.
“For the first time in many years, it will give locals the ability to have a say in the long-term direction of their region and develop a platform for new industries and housing opportunities,” James says.
Write to Maddison Elliott at Mining.com.au
Images: Queensland Government
