The Queensland Government is launching an ambitious long-term blueprint to address the housing and infrastructure needs of the Far North, setting a bold target of nearly 50,000 new homes over the next two decades.
Deputy Premier and Minister for State Development, Infrastructure and Planning, Jarrod Bleijie, has officially opened the draft Far North Queensland Regional Plan 2025 for public consultation, urging residents to help shape the future of their communities.
A Blueprint for Growth and Housing
The cornerstone of the plan is a concrete target to deliver 48,485 additional homes by 2046. This significant number translates to the construction of approximately 1,940 homes each year across the region to keep pace with growth and demand.
Mr Bleijie emphasised that the plan is designed to strategically guide where housing, essential infrastructure, and job opportunities are most needed. A key feature of this new blueprint is the inclusion of a supporting infrastructure plan, a direct response to feedback from industry and local councils.
Key Projects and Community Partnership
A major component highlighted in the draft is the Mount Peter Priority Development Area (PDA) in Cairns's southern growth corridor. This strategic area is earmarked to unlock the potential for up to 18,500 new homes by 2046, representing a massive injection of housing supply.
The state government claims this planning process marks a departure from the past, asserting that the Crisafulli Government is “bringing local voices back into the regional planning process.” The plan has been developed in partnership with eight local councils, including Cairns, Cassowary Coast, and Tablelands, ensuring it reflects local priorities.
Have Your Say on FNQ's Future
The government is now calling on all Far Northerners to contribute to this critical planning document. Public consultation for the draft Far North Queensland Regional Plan 2025 and the draft FNQ Infrastructure Plan 2025 is now open and will run until January 5, 2026.
All submissions received during this period will be carefully considered in the finalisation of the plan. The government encourages the community to provide feedback on where and when new housing and supporting infrastructure, such as transport, utilities, and community services, are needed to support sustainable growth.
The release of the draft plan follows an industry briefing event hosted by the Urban Development Institute of Australia (UDIA) in Cairns, signalling the start of a crucial period of community engagement for the future of Far North Queensland.
