The Crisafulli Government has unveiled a new long-term Regional Plan for Far North Queensland, outlining a vision to support housing, infrastructure, tourism, agriculture, mining, and economic development across the region over the next two decades.
The Far North Queensland Regional Plan 2026 is the first of 13 new regional plans set to be delivered across Queensland and is being positioned as a fresh approach to planning developed in partnership with local councils and communities.
The plan aims to balance growth with the unique lifestyle, environment, and character that make Far North Queensland one of the State’s most important regions.
A major focus of the Regional Plan is addressing future population growth and housing demand.
Under the strategy, planning is underway for more than 48,485 additional homes by 2046. This is equivalent to around 1,940 new homes each year.
The plan also identifies key growth areas including:
- The Mount Peter Priority Development Area
- The Cairns South State Development Area
- The broader Cairns Southern Growth Corridor
Coordinated transport and infrastructure planning will support these expanding communities while helping unlock future residential and economic development opportunities.
The Regional Plan also identifies opportunities to strengthen key industries across Far North Queensland, including:
- Agriculture
- Critical minerals and resources
- Tourism and eco-tourism
- Construction and infrastructure development
The strategy recognises Far North Queensland’s growing role as a “northern gateway” for international trade, tourism, and global connections. The plan was developed in partnership with the region’s eight local councils, with local leaders welcoming the collaborative approach.
Far North Queenslanders know better than anyone what makes this place special, and this plan puts our voices at the centre of decisions about housing, jobs, and infrastructure. This Plan will finally rebuild the Far North with a focus on delivering the regional infrastructure and housing supply we need.
The Regional Plan also includes:
- Policies to improve infrastructure resilience against flooding and cyclones
- Targeted urban footprint expansions to guide sustainable development
- Support for eco-tourism and nature-based tourism opportunities
- Improved infrastructure coordination across the region
The Far North Queensland Regional Plan and Infrastructure Plan 2026 is intended to guide growth, infrastructure investment, and economic development across the region through to 2046.
For more information or to view the full plan, visit:
Far North Queensland Regional Plan 2026
