Fast-tracking new homes, jobs, marina

Thousands of new homes and jobs will be accelerated in a Moreton Bay suburb after the State's latest Priority Development Area was declared today.

The Queensland Government’s move will lead to 3700 new homes and 2000 new jobs at North Harbour, in Burpengary East.

Declaring the PDA through Governor-in-Council, clears the way for the next stage of the $2.74 billion North Harbour masterplan.

It includes a 400-berth marina, hotels, retail precincts and 200 homes fast-tracked within an Early Release Area to help the current housing shortage.

“This brings Queensland a step closer to delivering one million homes by 2044,” Deputy Premier and Minister for State Development, Infrastructure and Planning Jarrod Bleijie said.

“Dedicated maritime industry infrastructure, tourism and hotel precincts are expected to generate nearly 2000 jobs and add $456 million to the regional economy each year.

“By working closely with City of Moreton Bay, the landholders and the community, we’re bringing forward housing within a key growth area.”

Mayor Peter Flannery said the new apartments and homes will give housing diversity for hundreds of people moving to City of Moreton Bay each week.

“The site’s parklands featuring the largest, publicly accessible riverfront park in South-East Queensland, will also attract multiple tourism and recreational opportunities,” he said.

North Harbour Holdings project director Bryan Finney welcomed the PDA saying: “We’ve already seen what’s possible with our business bark - over 280,000sqm sold and settled.

“Now, this decision gives us the certainty we need to deliver the next stage: more homes, more jobs and a new waterfront precinct.

“North Harbour is already home to more than 4000 residents and this next chapter will give them better access to the bay, more opportunities and improved lifestyle.”

Mr Finney said the aim is to have North Harbour’s new marina ready in time for the 2032 Olympic Games in Brisbane.

There are already approvals for a new shopping centre, tavern and second childcare centre, an application has been lodged for a medical centre and a new display village is to open next year.

MAS Architecture Studio director Nick Symonds says the PDA “clears delays, builds confidence and allows us to design a true benchmark community.”

An Interim Land Use Plan (ILUP) is now in effect and enables development applications to proceed immediately for the Early Development Area.

Planning for the PDA will be led by Economic Development Queensland (EDQ), with City of Moreton Bay, North Harbour by Port Binnli, Trask Land and the community.

EDQ and its partners will prepare a Development Scheme for the PDA over the next 18 months. Community consultation will be part of this process in 2026.