The Fraser Coast region, located in Queensland, continues to evolve through a combination of strategic planning, infrastructure upgrades, and sustainable development initiatives. As the local population grows, driven by migration from southern states and a strong appeal for lifestyle change, town planning on the Fraser Coast has become an essential focus for both the Fraser Coast Regional Council and the Queensland State Government. Current planning efforts are aimed at accommodating growth while preserving the unique coastal and rural character that defines the region.
Hervey Bay, Maryborough, and surrounding townships such as Burrum Heads, Howard, Tiaro, and Torbanlea are all experiencing increased development activity. This is largely due to a combination of affordable housing, expanding employment opportunities, and infrastructure projects designed to support population growth. The region’s planning policies are guided by the Fraser Coast Planning Scheme 2014, which continues to be reviewed and updated to reflect new economic realities and environmental priorities.
Population Growth and Urban Expansion
Population growth on the Fraser Coast is one of the primary drivers of current planning initiatives. According to recent data from the Queensland Government Statistician’s Office, the region’s population is projected to grow significantly over the next decade. Much of this growth is expected to be concentrated around Hervey Bay, which has become one of Queensland’s fastest-growing coastal communities.
To manage this growth responsibly, town planners are focusing on strategic land releases that balance residential expansion with adequate green spaces, transport corridors, and community facilities. New housing estates are being developed in suburbs like Eli Waters, Kawungan, and Urraween, while infill development is encouraged closer to established urban centres. The aim is to prevent urban sprawl and reduce pressure on coastal ecosystems, which are among the Fraser Coast’s most valuable environmental assets.
Infrastructure Projects Supporting Growth
The Fraser Coast Regional Council has prioritised several key infrastructure projects to support its town planning objectives. The Hervey Bay Airport expansion, for instance, is part of a long-term plan to attract more interstate visitors and business travellers, providing an economic boost to the region. Road upgrades, including improvements to Maryborough-Hervey Bay Road and Boat Harbour Drive, are also underway to improve traffic flow and reduce congestion as more people move into the area.
Additionally, investments in water management, sewerage, and stormwater systems are being made to accommodate new residential and industrial developments. Council has emphasised the importance of sustainable infrastructure, ensuring that upgrades are resilient to extreme weather events and consistent with long-term climate adaptation strategies.
Housing Affordability and Development Pressure
While population growth brings economic opportunities, it also increases pressure on the housing market. The Fraser Coast has seen a sharp rise in property demand since the COVID-19 pandemic, as remote work trends allowed more Australians to relocate from major cities to regional areas. This surge has led to higher property prices and a shortage of available rentals across Hervey Bay and Maryborough.
In response, the Council has been working to streamline development approvals and encourage the construction of diverse housing types, including medium-density developments, townhouses, and affordable housing projects. Planning officers are also collaborating with developers to ensure that new estates include essential amenities such as parks, footpaths, and community spaces. Balancing housing supply with infrastructure capacity remains one of the region’s biggest planning challenges.
Sustainability and Environmental Considerations
Environmental sustainability continues to be a central theme in Fraser Coast’s planning policies. The region’s natural assets—ranging from the Great Sandy Strait and K’gari (Fraser Island) to its network of rivers and wetlands—require careful management to protect biodiversity and maintain tourism appeal. Development near sensitive areas is subject to strict environmental assessment processes to prevent habitat destruction and coastal erosion.
The Council has also been promoting energy-efficient building standards and encouraging the use of renewable energy in both residential and commercial developments. Flood resilience is another priority, particularly in low-lying parts of Maryborough, where flood mitigation infrastructure is being improved to protect existing properties and future developments. These initiatives align with the region’s broader goal of achieving sustainable growth while safeguarding its natural heritage.
Revitalisation of Maryborough
Maryborough’s urban renewal projects are an important part of the region’s planning agenda. The historic town centre has undergone significant revitalisation efforts, with investments in heritage conservation, streetscape improvements, and small business support. The Council’s Maryborough Activation Plan aims to attract new residents, tourists, and investors by enhancing the town’s cultural identity and livability.
Adaptive reuse of heritage buildings is being encouraged, allowing older structures to serve modern purposes while preserving their architectural character. This approach not only stimulates the local economy but also reinforces Maryborough’s identity as a heritage destination within the Fraser Coast.
Industrial and Economic Development
Beyond residential and tourism growth, industrial expansion plays a crucial role in town planning decisions. The Maryborough Industrial Estate continues to attract manufacturing and logistics businesses, supported by its proximity to major highways and rail connections. Recent developments include expansions in the renewable energy sector, with solar farms and battery storage projects being considered for suitable sites across the region.
The Fraser Coast Regional Council has been working with the State Government to promote economic diversification. Initiatives are focused on advanced manufacturing, marine industries, and health services—all sectors that provide long-term employment opportunities for the local population. This economic focus complements planning efforts to ensure that residential growth is supported by sustainable job creation.
Community Engagement and Planning Transparency
Public consultation remains a key part of the Fraser Coast’s planning process. The Council regularly invites residents to provide feedback on proposed developments, planning scheme amendments, and infrastructure strategies. Online tools and community workshops have made the consultation process more accessible, allowing residents from smaller communities to have their voices heard.
This emphasis on transparency helps build public trust and ensures that planning decisions reflect the community’s values and expectations. Council reports and planning updates are publicly available, reinforcing accountability and promoting informed participation in regional development.
Urban Planet, Your Local Town Planners
The future of town planning on the Fraser Coast will continue to revolve around growth management, sustainability, and livability. As Hervey Bay evolves into a major regional hub and Maryborough strengthens its role as an economic centre, the region’s planners face the challenge of integrating modern development with environmental stewardship and community identity.
Ongoing reviews of the Fraser Coast Planning Scheme, combined with continued investment in infrastructure and community engagement, are likely to shape the region’s growth trajectory for decades to come. The ultimate goal is to ensure that the Fraser Coast remains a desirable, well-planned, and resilient region—capable of supporting its residents while preserving the natural beauty and relaxed lifestyle that make it unique.