Mackay a high growth area in Queensland

22 August 2007

Mackay a high growth area in Queensland

Mackay is one of Queensland’s highest growth areas, according to an analysis of the 2006 Census which was released today by the state government.

Local Government and Planning Minister Andrew Fraser said Queensland had continued to lead Australia, with unprecedented population growth, particularly in the South-East, regional cities and the resources corridor.

Brisbane, with 19,100 new people every year and the Gold Coast with 16,700, recorded the largest annual average growth of any local government area in the nation between 2001 and 2006.

The data has also shown that the annual population growth in South East Queensland in the last five years, averaged 66,000.

“Given our rich resources, climate and infrastructure, it is of little surprise that we are experiencing historic population growth, which has major economic benefits for the state, however this does come with some challenges.” Mr Fraser said.

“That’s why we have to monitor our population increases and plan for Queensland’s future and get the right planning in place.”

Over the last five years, Mackay has grown by 3.5% per year or 14,310 people, bringing the total number of residents to 90 303. The strong population growth, more than triple the growth in the previous five years, is a combination of the resources boom in the Bowen Basin and the continuing attraction of Queensland’s coastal locations.

Nebo has also recorded high growth of 5.3% per year in the last five years, bringing its total population to 13 311 people.

“I believe that this will continue given the sea-change phenomena that is gripping the state because of our unique climate and stunning environment which needs to be preserved,” Mr Fraser said.

“Regional areas are also experiencing significant growth in areas where critical local government reform is now underway.”

“The independent Local Government Reform Commission quite rightly used population growth along with future population projections in reaching its recommendations which have lead to the historic council reform we are now undertaking.

“Mackay will now be supported by the new Mackay Regional Council, which will incorporate Mirani and Sarina Shires.

“Real change was needed and our historic raft of reforms will ensure that councils are strong, economically viable and able to cope with future growth.

“This data we release today shows why reform is needed,” Mr Fraser said.

Mr Fraser said the government would continue to study and analyse the state’s population growth which was essential for strategic planning, to help build stronger, more sustainable councils.

Media Contact: Chris Ward 0418 424 654