by Sonia Isaacs
The Sunshine Coast’s proposed new planning scheme has moved a step closer to reality, with the Queensland Government completing its State Interest Review (SIR).
The Department of State Development, Infrastructure and Planning has conditionally endorsed the proposal – allowing it to move to the next stage of the process – while maintaining strict oversight on Beerwah East’s future as a development area to ensure alignment with the state’s broader urban expansion plans. The Sunshine Coast Council will now review the state’s conditions and make necessary amendments before launching the next phase—community consultation.
A council spokesperson said the region had experienced significant growth, with the population increasing by more than 79,000 between 2011 and 2021, and projections indicating a rise to over 518,000 residents by 2041. Additionally, the Sunshine Coast attracts more than 11 million visitors annually.
“This level of growth and visitation continues to place significant pressure on the Sunshine Coast’s housing, transport, employment patterns, social infrastructure and environment,” the spokesperson said.
“A planning scheme provides a framework for new development, outlining where future growth should occur and areas where development should be restricted. The State Government’s review of the proposed scheme allows Council to move to the next stage—community consultation—subject to compliance with certain conditions.”
Sunshine Coast Mayor Rosanna Natoli welcomed the progress, emphasising the importance of well-managed growth.
“The new planning scheme project is a vital step in ensuring our community remains connected, liveable and thriving—both now and into the future,” she said.
“The Sunshine Coast is home to approximately 375,000 residents, and that number is expected to exceed 565,000 by 2046. Sustainable growth requires careful planning, and we are committed to achieving that balance.”
The Queensland Government has identified the Sunshine Coast as a key region in its strategy to deliver one million new homes by 2044. In correspondence dated 28 February to Sunshine Coast Council CEO John Baker, Queensland Director-General John Sosso stressed the need for ongoing monitoring of housing supply.
“Meeting the dwelling supply targets and typologies in ShapingSEQ 2023 is critical to providing for the future housing needs of the Sunshine Coast,” Mr Sosso said.
“The modelling data provided by Council through its Growth Scenario Testing Platform has demonstrated that the proposed planning scheme can accommodate these targets. However, ongoing monitoring will be essential to ensure provisions do not negatively impact housing supply, affordability, and diversity.”
With the state’s conditional review of the planning scheme proposal completed, the focus now shifts back to Council to assess the state’s conditions and make necessary amendments before opening the next phase – community consultation; where Sunshine Coast residents will have the opportunity to provide feedback on the proposed scheme.