State government calls time on Southern Moreton Bay Islands Act

Published Wednesday, 03 April, 2019 at 07:00 AM

Minister for State Development, Manufacturing, Infrastructure and Planning
The Honourable Cameron Dick

The Queensland Parliament has today repealed the Southern Moreton Bay Islands Development Entitlements Protection Act 2004, paving the way for more contemporary planning frameworks in the region.

Minister for State Development, Manufacturing, Infrastructure and Planning Cameron Dick said the changes would see planning on Russell, Macleay, Karragarra and Lamb Islands now fall within the Redland City Plan.

“Previously, this legislation was creating confusion around how development on the Southern Moreton Bay Islands could proceed,” Mr Dick said.

“By repealing these outdated laws, planning requirements for the local community are now certain, as set out in the Redland City Plan.

“Our south-east is one of Australia’s fastest growing regions, and as a government we want to make sure this growth is being managed responsibly and appropriately.

“We want to ensure that the Redlands Coast’s unique island lifestyle will be protected and preserved under a contemporary planning scheme.”

This is the first time since the Southern Moreton Bay Islands Development Entitlements Protection Act 2004 came into effect that development proposals on these islands follow the same rules as the rest of Redland City.

Member for Redlands Kim Richards said the changes would give the entire Redlands Coast greater planning certainty.

“This is about ensuring we’re striking the right balance between development and environment in our community,” Ms Richards said.

“The Redlands is a unique and beautiful place to live and raise a family, and with planning decisions now coming under the Redland City Plan, growth in our region will better reflect community expectations.”

In addition to amending the Southern Moreton Bay Islands Development Entitlements Protection Act 2004, the Economic Development and Other Legislation Amendment Bill 2017 amends the Sanctuary Cove Resort Act, the Economic Development Act 2012, Queensland Reconstruction Authority Act 2011, Planning Act 2016, Planning and Environment Court Act 2016 and the South Bank Corporation Act 1989.”

ENDS

Media contact: Ben Doyle 0400 775 561