The Fraser Coast continues to evolve and is one of the top growth performers in the Queensland, if not the country. Whilst great for our local economy, this unwavering growth undoubtedly creates pressure for existing housing, infrastructure and services. To accommodate this growth, our local planning framework must keep pace with modern trends.
A mandatory 10-year statutory review is underway, and major amendments are now proposed to the Fraser Coast Planning Scheme 2014 that represent the most significant shift in our local development landscape in a decade. New changes are fundamental to ensure our local planning scheme aligns with modern community needs and State regional priorities.
Some key proposed changes to look out for include:
• Low-medium density residential zone: New residential zone to encourage “gentle density” near existing services, shops, and transport corridors.
• Rural residential zone: Reduced minimum area of 1Ha prescribed for properties without reticulated water and sewer and outside hazard precincts.
• Small lot design overhaul: Redefines small residential lots as those under 450m² and increased design requirements.
• New On-Site Sewerage Facility (OSSF) code: Stricter wastewater design requirements and increases minimum lot sizes for unsewered land subdivisions from 2,000m² to 3,000m².
• Secondary dwelling expansion: Increases the maximum size of “granny flats” from 70m² to 100m².
• Triplexes: Development for maximum 3 dwellings now granted “self-assessable” status in particular residential zones to speed up the delivery of diverse housing.
• Medium density height increases: Raising height limits from 11m (3 storeys) to 16m (5 storeys) to improve project viability.
• Heritage and character overlay: Is now split into two distinct overlays for clearer management of historic assets versus neighbourhood “feel.”
• Hazard resilient precincts: Updated mapping and design requirements for flood, bushfire, and coastal hazards based on the latest modelling.
A consultation period is now open until 1 May 2026. This is the opportunity for every landowner, resident or visitor to have their say.
We expect Council’s amendment process may take a further 6 to 12 months after consultation closes to review submissions, draft any additional changes, and finalise State interest approvals before seeking formal adoption.
I encourage everyone to visit the Fraser Coast Have Your Say page to learn more about proposed amendments and see what may affect your property or business.
For site-specific guidance, consider consulting with Council’s strategic planning team or a local town planning consultant for clarity before the new rules are adopted.
