PROJECT UPDATE – JULY 2025
Southern Downs DRAFT Planning Scheme Review Stage 2
What is happening? Southern Downs Regional Council (SDRC) is preparing to replace the current Planning Scheme (version 5) with a new draft and we want to engage with you, our community. In 2021, Council made the decision to create a new planning scheme that better reflects the needs of our growing communities. Since then, we’ve worked closely with the community, key stakeholders, and the Queensland Government to gather feedback. The proposed draft aims to reflect the unique character of our region while promoting sustainable growth and ensuring the Southern Downs is a great place to live, work, play and stay. In Queensland, a planning scheme is a legal document developed and adopted by a local council under the Planning Act 2016 (QLD). It sets out the framework for managing the use of land and development within a local government area and planning for anticipated growth. For our region, it plays a key role in shaping how communities grow by protecting natural and cultural values, managing infrastructure needs, supporting economic development, and ensuring land is used in a way that aligns with the community’s long-term vision.
A MESSAGE FROM THE MAYOR It’s time for the Southern Downs to have a planning scheme that helps us to realise our amazing potential and which makes it easier to live, work, play and invest here. We want our community to help shape the future of our region and ensure that the draft Planning Scheme lays the foundation for a stronger, more liveable and vibrant Southern Downs. I encourage all residents to get involved, have their say, and champion the opportunities you see for our region. Melissa Hamilton Mayor, Southern Downs Regional Council
THE DRAFT PLANNING SCHEME AIMS TO: • Balance growth, liveability and sustainability across the region • Provide a simplified and user-friendly format to find information faster • Provide clearer zoning and overlays to understand what’s supported where • Support a wider range of housing, investment and industry • Protect the unique character and natural assets of the region • Enhance support for town centre growth • Reduce red tape for builders, developers and homeowners.
THE ENGAGEMENT TIMELINE 2021
2022-24
2025
2026
Stage 1 Consultation
Drafting
Stage 2 Consultation
Adoption
current
A great place to live, w k, play and stay.