Industry alerts

Our Team update

There have been a number of exciting changes in the Development & Planning Branch and Growth & Sustainability Branch lately and we wanted to share these with you!

Appointment of Nastassja Lazarus to Strategic Planning Team

We are very excited to announce that Nastassja has joined the Strategic Planning team as a Senior Strategic Planner. She has provided leadership and technical expertise to the Development Assessment team during her time as Principal Planner.

She steps into the Strategic Planning role at a peak time in the Towards 2050 Growth Strategy development and is a valued member of the team.

Appointment of Justin Phipps

We are very excited to announce that Justin Phipps has joined our Development Assessment team. Justin brings a fresh perspective to the role, with previous experience in a local private consultancy.

As a Senior Planning Officer, Justin will work closely with the balance of the Development Assessment team, community,  development industry and stakeholders to promote quality development outcomes. Welcome to the team Justin!

TC Jasper applicable event - statutory timeframes

The State Government has made an applicable event declaration under the Planning Act 2016. The effects of the declaration include:

• Extending key development assessment timeframes by 20 business days for development applications across the affected local government area to alleviate pressure on the development assessment system
• Temporary use licences enabling changes to existing development approval conditions or other operating constraints that may prevent a use from operating during the applicable event
• Declaration of uses, meaning businesses such as supermarkets, warehouses and transport depots may operate 24 hours a day, seven days a week, to ensure essential goods are available
• Allows the State or a local government to deliver emergency housing in response to an event (as defined under the Disaster Management Act 2003) without seeking a material change of use approval through the development assessment process.

The applicable event period is from 22 December 2023 until 9 February 2024 (inclusive). Visit the Queensland Government Planning website for more information on applicable events.

Reminder: erosion & sediment control measures to be installed

As we prepare for the wet season, Council wishes to reinforce to our industry partners the importance of maintaining proper erosion and sediment control measures at construction sites. It's crucial to ensure that construction sites are adequately protected from potential storm events and that any airborne materials are appropriately secured or removed at the end of each working day.

The Environmental Protection Act 1994 prescribes specific contaminants that are prohibited from being released or deposited into roadside gutters, stormwater drains, and waterways and Council will be proactively monitoring development sites throughout the wet season to ensure compliance with these requirements, as well as compliance with
Development Permits and the FNQROC Development Manual. Failure to comply with any of these requirements will result in
enforcement action and possible penalties.

Download our erosion & sediment control fact sheets for more information, or contact Council’s Development Services team on telephone 1300 692247.

Talk to a Planner (TAPS) is now General Enquiry Meeting (GEM)

We have refreshed our Talk to a Planner (TAPS) service to now be General Enquiry Meeting (GEM).

• The purpose of the change is to clarify to our customers that a “General Enquiry Meeting” is effectively a “General Development Enquiry”, in person (or virtual).
• The information required for the former “TAPS” process was more in alignment with a prelodgement, causing confusion with respect to the level of service being provided.

Key Changes:

• Appointments are now 20 minutes.
• Less mandatory detail is required. Information required is now limited to a street address, lot on plan, and uploading attachments is now optional (whilst still encouraged).
• The service is not for formal advice. Any formal advice would follow the pre-lodgement services offered by the team.

Visit the Development Enquiries webpage for more information.

Amendment to DA Form 1

There has been an amendment to the DA Form 1, as required by the Planning Act 2016. The form has been amended to address legislative changes that relate to the SEQ region.

Before submitting a development application, please ensure you have the most up-to-date version of the form. You can download DA Form 1 at the Queensland Government Planning website.

Crossovers & driveways reminder

There has been an increase in examples recently where crossovers and driveways have been constructed in direct conflict with other infrastructure such as stormwater inlet pits, sewer manholes, electrical and telecommunications
infrastructure and street trees. Additionally, there are examples where crossovers and driveways have not been located appropriately (i.e at an intersection), resulting in an increase to safety of people and property. In some instances, these crossovers and driveways have been required to be removed.

The Development & Planning Branch wish to provide a friendly reminder to ensure crossovers and driveways are constructed in accordance with the FNQROC Development Manual. Where construction is not able to meet the requirements
of FNQROC Development Manual, the Development & Planning Branch is able to provide advice and support.

For more information refer to our Driveways & crossovers webpage.

Issue resolution process

To ensure matters are being addressed by the correct person and in a timely manner, Officers refer to the Issue Resolution Process on Council’s website.

In the first instance, the matter should be dealt with through the Assessing Officer. If the matter cannot be resolved in consultation with the Assessing Officer, the matter is to be escalated to the leadership team, as detailed in the resolution process on Council’s website. It is important that this process is followed to ensure the timely action of escalations. Thank you in advance for your support.

Draft conditions process

In response to feedback from our development industry regarding the streamlining of assessment timeframes, the Development and Planning Branch have reviewed the non-statutory processes associated the development assessment. As part of this review, we have made a change to our draft conditions process.

Officers will no longer be issuing draft conditions for matters which are low risk (for example, domestic matters). Instead, the Officer will call to advise the conditions package will be standard in nature. Where draft conditions are non-standard, the Assessing Officer will provide these for comment.

All medium and high-risk projects will continue to follow the existing process, where draft conditions will be issued.
We thank you for your continued support in this regard.

Post-approval framework is almost here!

We are excited to announce the completion of our Post Approval Framework Project! This project has been a complete end to end review of all post approval processes. The post approval processes are a linear set of construction related milestones, including Pre-start, Early Planning Sealing, Works Acceptance, and Final works Acceptance.

The review has sought to streamline all post approval processes and make the entire post approvals space highly transparent and easier to navigate. The review also completed consultation with the industry and where this consultation greatly assisted in identifying key focus areas.

We're making our processes clearer and easier. This includes new step-by-step guidelines and application forms help you navigate each step for a quicker turnaround time. The industry will have a big part to play by ensuring that submissions and applications made in the post approval space are complete when submitted to Council. Complete
packages enable Council to process your requests much quicker, reduce the congestion and enable faster inspections, subsequent certificates and ultimately, completion of your project.

All content required to support your Post-approval submissions and applications will be available on our in an easy-to-follow layout. The new Post Approval Framework will commence from 29 January 2024.

As we step into 2024, the Development & Planning Team extends a warm welcome back to the development
industry!

Last year brought a maintained volume of development activity to the Cairns region, and we want to express
our appreciation for the dedication and collaborative efforts of all involved. Managing this volume presented
challenges, yet your cooperative approach played a vital role in navigating the assessment journey and
fostering sustainable growth within our community.

Taking a moment to reflect on the achievements and milestones of the past year, we have prepared a snapshot
of our year in review (attached). While this provides a glimpse into our success as an industry (and community),
it's important to recognise the significant volume of activity that unfolded in appeals, customer enquiries and
engagement, and post-approval and construction phase. Post-approval data will be available as we move
throughout the year, and once our Post-approval Framework has launched!

Other noteworthy accomplishments as an industry include:

• Launching our Standard Development Conditions Suite
• Founding of The Industry Initiative
• Launched Express DA (and are currently refining Phase 2)
• Finalised the Post-Approval Framework (due to go live on 29 January)
• FNQROC Development Manual Amendment Project
• Refined our Talk to a Planner Service.

The Development & Planning Branch remains committed to ensuring an efficient, transparent, and responsive
development process aligned with our community's needs. Our focus for 2024 remains on measures to
streamline assessment, reduce timeframes, and improve communication channels, with a strong emphasis on
collaborative input from our stakeholders. We will share more on this as the year progresses!

As we embark on our journey into 2024, we look forward to sustained collaboration and positive engagement
with the development industry. As an industry, we have collectively built a working relationship founded on
professionalism, expertise, and a shared commitment to delivering quality outcomes for our region. A
foundation of which we should all be incredibly proud.

As we all know, the development industry is known for its challenges, but equally for its accomplishments!
Your continued partnership is invaluable, and we anticipate another year of constructive collaboration,
overcoming challenges, and contributing to the sustainable development of our community and our region;
the place we call home. Thank you for your ongoing support, and here's to a wonderful, successful, and fun year ahead!
Sincerely, the Development & Planning Team.

There have been a number of exciting changes in the Development & Planning Branch lately and we wanted to share these with you!

Appointment of Amy Patterson as Executive Manager Licencing and Compliance

Amy Patterson is our new Executive Manager, Licencing and Compliance. She has joined the Executive Leadership Group alongside Ed Johnson as Director, and Fleur Anderson and Claire Simmons as Executive Managers.

Amy brings a wealth of experience and expertise in executive roles, with a strong strategic mindset and a passion for people. She has exceptional leadership skills, an ability to build strong relationships, and a commitment to achieving high standards of performance. As Executive Manager for Licencing and Compliance, Amy will be responsible for the strategic direction of the Branch, with a strong focus on internal and external stakeholder engagement, business optimisation, and a strong focus on people.

Dylan Thomas appointed as Planning Lead

Dylan Thomas has been appointed Planning Lead for the Development Assessment team. He brings a fresh perspective to the role, with previous experience in both a private consultancy as well as Local Government. As Planning Lead, Dylan will work closely with the Development Assessment team, community, development industry and stakeholders to promote quality development outcomes. Dylan is also co-leading the Development Assessment team alongside Isabella Kennedy.

Temporary appointment of Louise Cameron as Principal Planner (Infrastructure Coordination and Strategy)

As we continue recruitment for the role of Principal Planner (Infrastructure Coordination & Strategy), Louise Cameron, nominally Senior Planning Officer, has commenced in the role in an acting capacity for the remainder of 2023. Louise has extensive planning experience and involvement in a range of technical and complex matters.  In this acting role, she will be responsible for the management / negotiation of Infrastructure Agreements, oversight of trunk infrastructure delivery, and involvement in delivery of key policy documents and projects.

Appointment of Juan Pablo Raspo and Mahima Reshamwala as Development Engineers

We recently welcomed two new Development Engineers – Juan Raspo and Mahima Reshamwala. Both Juan and Mahima bring a new opportunity to the team and new ideas, each coming from civil engineering backgrounds.
Juan and Mahima have taken the new workload in their stride  and they look forward to working and enabling key development outcomes across the Cairns region!

Development activity across the region

We are experiencing a significant surge in development activity across our region, which is undoubtedly a testament to the vitality of our local industry. This upturn brings with it numerous opportunities and challenges alike, and we acknowledge the dedication and hard work of our team, our applicants, our development industry, and our community more broadly.
We are collectively feeling the pressures of this increased volume, and we understand that time is of the essence in the development process.

While we always strive to expedite the assessment process, we must be transparent about the fact that our Development & Planning Branch is currently working toward the statutory timeframes as per the Planning Act 2016. Despite this, our team remains committed to communicating and informing Applicants about the progress of their applications.

In light of these demanding circumstances, we ask your cooperation in advising clients of the above. We thank you for your patience; your professionalism and partnership is fundamental in facilitating quality growth across our region. As always, we encourage you to contact our team if you have any questions or need assistance. Your feedback is valuable, and we are committed to giving the support and guidance you need.

Reminder: erosion and sediment control measures to be installed

With the wet season approaching, we remind our industry partners of the obligations and duty of care in ensuring that your building and construction sites have appropriate erosion and sediment control measures in place. Also remember to adequately protect building and construction sites from storm events. This includes securing sites at the end of each working day and ensuring that potential airborne materials are adequately secured or removed.

The Environmental Protection Act 1994 prescribes the following contaminants that must not be released or deposited into roadside gutters, stormwater drains and waterways:

• Ashes, clay, gravel, sediment, stones and similar organic or inorganic matter;
• Building and construction materials, including bitumen, brick, cement, concrete and plaster;
• Building, construction and demolition waste, including bitumen, brick, concrete cuttings, plaster and waste mater generated by building, construction or demolition;
• Earth - meaning, sand, soil, silt or mud;
• Liquid containing suspended or dissolved solids;
• Glass, metal parts, paper, piping, plastic and scrap metal; and
• Paint, paint scrapings or residues, paint sludge, water used for diluting paint or washing painting utensils, and waste from paint stripping.

We will monitor active development and construction sites throughout the wet season. Compliance and enforcement action (including penalties) will apply to development which does not comply with the requirements prescribed by Development Permits, FNQROC Development Manual, and Environmental Protection Act 1994.For more information, you can download fact sheets from our Erosion & sediment control webpage or contact our Development Services Team on 1300 69 22 47.

Express DA: seeking feedback

On 1 July 2023, Council soft-launched the Express DA program, allowing suitably qualified and accredited professionals to lodge certain types of planning applications in a way that enables us to promptly issue decisions. The Express DA program is a business improvement initiative to adapt and respond to the evolving drivers of development in the region, and to help reduce the barriers to quality development outcomes within the region.

Processes are in place and the program is in full swing! Now, in a bid for continuous improvement, we - in consultation with the development industry – are looking to broaden the scope of eligible development types under Phase 2 of Express DA. At the Industry Initiative forum held on 14 September 2023, we asked the question to industry representatives - What do you want to see for Express DA Phase 2?

That question will be extended to the broader industry through a short survey. As the key program users, we want to know what you would like to see as an eligible development type in a future phase of Express DA.

Express DA update

On Thursday 14 September 2023, Council received a pre-submission request from Accredited Consultant, Innovate Urban, for a Material Change of Use for a Dual Occupancy. The Dual Occupancy met all the eligibility criteria to be considered under the Express DA program. In consultation with the Assessing Officer, and a collaborative approach to delivery of low-complexity development, a response was issued within 24 hours inviting the Accredited Consultant to formally lodge.

The DA was submitted and a Decision Notice and Infrastructure Charges Notice issued within 48 hours. We thank the Accredited Consultant for their collaborative approach to what was ultimately a great outcome for the Landowner and community!

Towards 2050 update

Council has released it Towards 2050 Growth Strategy Framework Paper. The framework explains what’s happened so far, what we have heard and found out and what’s happening next.

Cairns is one of the fastest growing regions in Queensland, and our population is expected to grow to more than 241,000 by the year 2050, according to revised figures released by the State Government in June.  That increase of nearly 70,000 people will create the need for over 32,000 new dwellings over the next 30 years! The Framework document identifies a number of key drivers and challenges of growth including:

• Changing community demographics, household dynamics and shifting housing needs;
• Protecting our rural and natural landscapes to ensure development does not continue to expand into these valuable areas;
• Maintaining our lifestyle;
• Recognising the identity and character of the individual communities across the region;
• Protecting places of cultural heritage significance and recognising the values and aspirations of First Peoples;
• Ensuring future growth is risk-responsive; and
• Responding and adapting to climate change and encouraging development that is suitable and resilient to our tropical climate.

The Framework also presents a suite of guiding principles that will inform the next phase of the project. These include housing to meet changing needs, recognising and respecting the region’s diverse cultures and heritage, delivering sustainable and resilient infrastructure, and protecting the natural environment. Community consultation on the is underway until 15 October 2023. Visit the Towards 2050 project website for more information and to view the Framework.

Principal Planner (Project Coordination & Appeals)

The Development & Planning Branch is incredibly excited to announce that Ian Elliott-Smith has been appointed as the Principal Planner (Project Coordination & Appeals). Ian will start in the role on 4 September 2023. Ian brings a wealth of experience and expertise to this position, having been part of the team as a Team Leader for Development Assessment and formerly a Planning Officer over the past 8 years.

As part of this new role, Ian will be responsible for coordinating efforts between internal and external stakeholders, fostering effective communication, and ensuring seamless collaboration and successful delivery of major development projects within the region. In addition to project coordination, Ian will also oversee the management of Planning and Environment Appeals as well as matters with the Development Tribunal. Ian's appointment to this newly created position reaffirms Council’s commitment to delivering excellence in the planning and development industry. Ian’s knowledge, leadership, and passion for driving outstanding development outcomes will bring immense value to our continued collaborative efforts as an industry, and community.

Please join us in extending a warm welcome to Ian as our new Principal Planner for Project Coordination and Appeals!

Thank you for your assistance

As part of the last Regional Development Update, Council sought to provide a friendly reminder to ensure that the applications for Pre-start, Early Plan Sealing, Works Acceptance, Final Works and Plan Sealing are complete, and address all outstanding items, prior to the lodgement of the application.

Since then, Council has noticed a significant improvement in these applications. On behalf of the Development & Planning Branch, we would like to thank our industry partners for your efforts in working with your respective project teams in this space. Providing all-encompassing applications continues to assist in removing unnecessary congestion and complexity in this process. Thank you!

Express DA now open

We are very pleased to announce that Council is now accepting applications for accreditation for the Express DA program!

In response to a significant volume of development activity across the region and our commitment to delivering on our Service Charter initiatives, we are introducing Express DA; an accelerated assessment initiative. Express DA allows suitably qualified and accredited professionals to lodge certain types of planning applications in a way that enables the Council to promptly issue decisions for those applications.

At this stage, the program is based on decision-ready applications for specific low complexity development types. The aim is to reduce timeframes and impacts on industry and Council, and to increase accountability and use of professional consultants.
View all relevant information on the Express DA program, including the accreditation kit, guideline and accredited consultants standard report template.

New incentive policy on the horizon

At the Planning and Environment Committee Meeting on 10 May 2023, Council supported the adoption of the Development and Investment Incentive Support Policy. The policy is due to take effect on 1 July 2023, and will replace Council’s COVID-19 Response Investment Incentive Policy which is currently in effect and is due to end on 30 June 2023.

Hold Point and Proof Roll inspections

The Development & Planning Branch have received a number of witness/hold point inspection requests recently whereby the meeting invite has been sent through on short notice and without checking the availability of the relevant team members. Whilst we appreciate the proactive approach, we do require a different approach to manage the requests and ensure this process works for everyone.

When requesting a hold/witness point inspection, please first call Council’s Inspector Mick Hattam (or email) with at least 48 hours’ notice of the requested inspection time and nature of inspection. We will then confirm with you an agreeable time and send the invite to you as confirmation. In most cases we can be on site in 24 hours, however, there are some days where we have a full schedule confirmed and require a bit more planning around the inspection.

With the hold and witness point inspections, in most case the supervising engineer will also need to be in attendance. This should be discussed with the team when making the booking if the engineer will not be present to ensure the inspection will proceed on site as planned.

Friendly reminder: Easements and administration

The Development & Planning Branch would like to provide the following friendly reminder:

• As-constructed plans should also be dwg. files lodged with the application for Works Acceptance. These files are required prior to Council issuing the Works AcceptanceCertificate.
• All Easements, Covenants and Transfer Forms as part of the Survey Plan approval process must be original documents and should be lodged at the same time as the Survey Plan.

This will continue to ensure that the approval process for Survey Plans is streamlined.

Friendly Reminder: Infrastructure Charges Notice

Council wishes to provide the following friendly reminder when making a payment towards levied Infrastructure Charges:

1. Ensure the figure on the Infrastructure Charges Notice is up to date, considering automatic increases. Should you have any queries or require an updated Infrastructure Charges Notice, please email TownPlanner@cairns.qld.gov.au.
2. Notify Council’s Customer Service Officer processing the request if the payment being made is a part payment or payment of a stage of development.
3. Reference the Infrastructure Charges Notice when making a payment, particularly the DA/ICN Number and the document reference included on the Notice.

Thank you for your understanding.

Fees and Charges changes for 2023/24

On 24 May 2023, Council endorsed an update to the Fees and Charges Schedule for the 2023/2024 Financial Year. While no increase in the fees and charges apply for the next financial year, there are a number of changes to the Fees and Charges Schedule, applicable to the Development & Planning. The updated Fees and Charges Schedule will take effect from 1 July 2023

The changes include:

New industry profiles now available

Cairns Regional Council has commissioned independent economic analysis to track the performance of the priority industries identified in Council’s Economic Development Strategy over time. Priority Industry Profiles have been prepared for:

• Arts and Culture
• Aviation
• Construction
• Education and Training
• Healthcare and Social Assistance
• Manufacturing
• Marine and Defence
• Tourism

Council’s Economic Development Strategy also identifies agriculture, mining and energy (in particular renewables) as regionally significant industry sectors for Far North Queensland. Cairns, as the primary service centre in the FNQ region, plays an important role in supporting the continued growth and development of these regionally significant industry sectors.

*Agriculture, Forestry and Fishing contributes approximately $1.6 billion to the FNQ economy each year and employs over 8,700 people. Similarly the Electricity, Gas, Water, and Waste Services, and Mining industries are significant for the wider region, contributing approximately $525 million and $470 million respectively to the regional economy.

Towards Cairns 2050 Growth Strategy

In its 2023/24 Annual Budget, Council committed $1.7 million to progress work on the Towards 2050 Growth Strategy. The strategy will ensure long-term growth is being appropriately, proactively, and sustainably managed by identifying growth targets and strategies to 2050 and beyond.

The growth strategy will encourage investment in the region, recognising that population is predicted to reach up to 265,000 by 2050 – more than 90,000 more people than live in the Cairns LGA today. It will support a wide range of businesses, industries and services and form a foundation for Council’s contemporary land use planning that supports growth, liveability and sustainability.

Technical studies will be prepared as part of the growth strategy to identify key elements, including where people will live and work, assessment of hazards that face the region and how people will move around.

To ensure that the strategy reflects the expectations of residents, the project includes one of the largest community engagement programs undertaken by Council. The Towards 2050 Growth Strategy will form a foundation of the new planning scheme.

Capital Works Program focuses on critical Infrastructure

Council will focus on preserving service levels and maintaining and upgrading core infrastructure as part of its $164.8 million Capital Works program. The program commits $84.5 million to renewal and upgrades of existing assets, with $80 million to be invested in new core infrastructure. This year, the Capital Works program allows for:

• $25.1 million on roads, bridges, streetlighting, drainage, kerb and channel, shoulder sealing, and bus stops
• $52.9 million on improving the water network,
• $29.6 million on the wastewater network
• $38.9 million on community, sport, and cultural projects

Download Cairns Regional Council's 2023/24 budget snapshot ( PDF, 0.45 MB ).

The Industry Initiative has launched!

We are very pleased to announce that The Industry Initiative has officially launched! On 16 May 2023, the first forum was held at Council! The group includes fifteen industry experts from their respective fields of planning, engineering, building, development, and design.  The purpose of The Industry Initiative is to collaboratively work toward operational initiatives which assist the broader development industry, with a fresh and innovative ethos to how we operate as an industry.

The primary objective of the group is to foster a high level of collaboration as industry professionals to innovate, develop and implement key priorities and initiatives, which enable improved planning, development, and infrastructure outcomes for our region.

During the forum, members discussed the main focus of the initiative, and shared insights into the short, medium, and long-term opportunities which could contribute to the continual improvement of delivering quality and sustainable growth within our region.  By exploring the short, medium, and long-term initiatives, the forum demonstrated their collective commitment to driving positive change and shaping the future of the development and planning industry. The discussions provided a solid foundation for collaborative efforts and paved the way for the establishment of the Industry Outcomes Strategy which is underway.

We will continue to share the progress of The Industry Initiative through the Regional Development Update and on Council’s website (coming soon). Stay tuned for more information!

A new incentive policy on the horizon

At the Planning and Environment Committee Meeting on 10 May 2023, Council supported the adoption of the Development and Investment Incentive Support Policy. The policy is due to take effect on 1 July 2023, and will replace Council’s COVID-19 Response Investment Incentive Policy which is currently in effect and is due to end on 30 June 2023.

Noting the changes in eligibility between the current policy and future policy, Applicants are encouraged to ensure that applications under the current policy are lodged prior to 30 June 2023.

Calling for interest: Express DA Accredition Program now live

We are very pleased to announce that Council is now accepting applications for accreditation for the Express DA program.
In response to a significant volume of development activity across the region and our commitment to delivering on our Service Charter initiatives, we are introducing Express DA; an accelerated assessment initiative.

Express DA allows suitably qualified and accredited professionals to lodge certain types of planning applications in a way that enables the Council to promptly issue decisions for those applications. At this point in time, the program is based on decision ready applications for specific low complexity development types. The aim of Express DA is to reduce timeframes and impacts on industry and Council, and to increase accountability and utilisation of professional consultants.

Under construction: Post-approval process

The Development & Planning Team is excited to announce the next phase of our ongoing commitment to continuous improvement. With a strong focus on delivering quality customer service and facilitating sustainable growth in our region, we will now embark on refreshing and rebuilding the post-approval processes! These include Pre-Start, Works Acceptance, Early Plan Sealing, Final Works Acceptance, and hold point inspections (including proof rolls and practical completion).

This initiative aims to review the current post-approval processes, identify areas for improvement, eliminate congestion, and enhance overall efficiency in delivering services across the development and planning functions. It will include engaging relevant stakeholders, to provide valuable input and insights. We will share more information throughout the balance of this year.

Standard Conditions suite review

As you are aware, the Standard Development Conditions Suite was adopted earlier this year and applies to Development Applications lodged from 1 March 2023 onward.

In accordance with our commitment to continual improvement, the Development & Planning Branch has commenced the first quarterly review of the conditions.

If you have any feedback in relation to the conditions, please send feedback to townplanner@cairns.qld.gov.au. We appreciate your ongoing feedback and supporting in continuing to strengthen our assessment processes associated with enabling quality development in our region.

Post-approval applications and inspections

In response to a significant volume of development activity across the region at present, the Development & Planning Branch is receiving a high volume of applications for Early Plan Sealing, Works Acceptance and Plan Sealing.

Council wishes to provide a friendly reminder to ensure that the applications are complete, and address all outstanding items, prior to the lodgement of the application. Where the application is incomplete, this is likely result in significant delays in review and assessment, and the issuance of the relevant Certificate and/or Plan of Survey. Further, this contributes to delays to other projects due to unnecessary congestion.

Hold Point inspections and re-inspection fees

Council is receiving a high volume of requests for inspections for matters including (but not limited to), proof rolls, compliance inspections, hold point inspections, works acceptance, practical completion, and final works acceptance. There have been instances recently where inspections have been called pre-maturely, and works are outstanding at the time of the inspection. In particular, these works have included landscaping, weed management, minor civil works, removal of stockpiles, and general site maintenance.

Council wishes to provide a friendly reminder to ensure that the work relevant to the request for inspection is complete, prior to the inspection being called. Should the re-inspection of works be required, a re-inspection fee of $1,750 will be charged in accordance with the Fees and Charges Schedule. We appreciate your assistance in ensuring work is completed prior to the respective inspection.

Reminder: Easement documents

Council wishes to provide a friendly reminder to ensure that Easement Documents are signed prior to lodging with Council. Where Easement Documents are not signed prior to lodgement, our team will return the Easement which may result in delays in progressing the matter further.

Calling for interest: Towards 2050 Community Panel

Council is seeking 350 Cairns residents to help discuss and understand the issues that come with planning for growth.
Panel members will be asked to explore ideas through a small number of activities including surveys, online polls and workshops or meetings.

Panel members will be chosen by an independent non-profit organisation that specialises in recruiting and selecting people to take part in these kind of events. We want to capture broad community views, so panel members will represent a wide variety of interests, ages, abilities, lived experience, skills and knowledge.

Council is not involved in the selection of panel representatives. To register your interest visit  www.sortitionfoundation.org/cairns, or freecall 1800 979 787 by 11:59pm on Sunday 18 June 2023.

Calling for interest: Development & Planning Industry Initiative

Council is pleased to advise that Expressions of Interest are now open for ten (10) development & planning industry representatives to join the Development & Planning Industry Initiative (The Industry Initiative).

The Industry Initiative is a collaborative and innovative forum, which seeks to share knowledge, information and ideas which contribute to the facilitation of quality development outcomes and appropriate growth across the region. The group has a specific focus on the effective and efficient delivery of Council’s development and planning functions, and a best practice approach within the legislative and policy framework which encompasses development. This group will replace the Industry Reference (sub) Group that has been meeting for the past 12 months or so.

The purpose of The Industry Initiative is to collaboratively work toward operational initiatives which assist the broader development industry, with a fresh and innovative ethos to how we operate as an industry.

The primary objective of the group is to foster a high level of collaboration as industry professionals to innovate, develop and implement key priorities and initiatives, which enable improved planning, development, and infrastructure outcomes for our region.

We are passionate about realising business improvement in partnership, not in spite of, industry and we see this as a forum to openly discuss issues, road test solutions and evaluate efficacy. Please note: This forum will replace the Industry Reference Group (sub-working group) which was dissolved in December 2022.

Expressions of Interest:

If you are interested in participating in this exciting opportunity, we want to hear from you! Simply write in to tell us:

1. Why do you want to be part of The Industry Initiative?
2. What does a fresh and innovative ethos for our industry look like to you?
3. What would you like the forum to achieve in the next twelve (12) months?
4. How would you ensure that the Objectives and Key Performance Indicators (as per the Terms of Reference) are achieved?

Please submit your Expression of Interest by close of business Friday 24 February 2023. For more information (including to obtain a copy of the Terms of Reference), or to submit an expression of interest, please contact Claire Simmons, Executive Manager Development & Planning or (07) 4044 3176.  We look forward to hearing from you!

Calling for Interest: Industry Reference Group

Council is pleased to advise that Expressions of Interest are now open for five (5) additional industry representatives to join the Industry Reference Group.

The Industry Reference Group is a collaborative and innovative forum, which seeks to share knowledge, information and ideas which contribute to the facilitation of appropriate growth across the region.

The primary objective of the group is to foster a high level of collaboration as industry professionals to discuss the strategic initiatives and challenges which are current and emergent to the development of Cairns and its continued success as our region.

Expressions of Interest:

If you are interested in participating in this exciting opportunity, we want to hear from you! Simply write in to tell us:

1. Why do you want to be part of the Industry Reference Group?
2. What does a fresh and innovative ethos for our industry look like to you?
3. What would you like the forum to achieve in the next twelve (12) months?
4. How would you ensure that the Objectives and Key Performance Indicators (as per the Terms of Reference) are achieved?

Please submit your Expression of Interest by close of business Friday 24 February 2023. Please note: All existing members will remain as members of the group unless formal withdrawal is received by Council. For more information (including to obtain a copy of the Terms of Reference), or to submit an expression of interest, please contact Ed Johnson, Director Planning Growth & Sustainability. We look forward to hearing from you!

Standard Development Conditions Suite is here!

The Development & Planning Branch are pleased to announce the completion of Version 1.0 of the Standard Development Conditions Suite. The Standard Development Conditions Suite intends to allow for the consistent application of anticipated development conditions on Development Permits issued under the Planning Act 2016.

Version 1.0 of the Standard Development Conditions Suite is now publicly available on Council’s website, with the conditions applied on all Development Applications lodged from 1 March 2023 onward.

The document will remain a ‘live’ document, with proposed amendments reviewed quarterly (or as needed if required sooner). Submissions and suggested amendments can be made to TownPlanner@cairns.qld.gov.au.

Further, the Development & Planning Branch would like to extend our sincerest gratitude to those involved within the Industry and Community, and the provision of feedback and commentary that assisted in forming the Standard Development Conditions Suite.

We've gone electonic!

Following the closure of the Cairns Titles Office late last year, Survey Plans must now be lodged electronically. Signing of Survey Plans and all associated forms will now occur electronically. For more information please visit our Plan of Subdivision web page. Thank you for your understanding.

Post-approval applications & inspections

In response to a significant volume of development activity across the region at present, the Development & Planning Branch is receiving a high volume of applications for Early Plan Sealing, Works Acceptance and Plan Sealing.

Council wishes to provide a friendly reminder to ensure that the applications are complete, and address all outstanding items, prior to the lodgement of the application. Where the application is incomplete, this may result in significant delays in review and assessment, and the issuance of the relevant Certificate and/or Plan of Survey.

Additionally, Council is receiving a high volume of requests for inspections for matters including (but not limited to), proof rolls, compliance inspections, hold point inspections, works acceptance, practical completion, and final works acceptance.

Council wishes to provide a friendly reminder to ensure that the work relevant to the request for inspection is complete, prior to the inspection being called. Should the re-inspection of works be required, a re-inspection fee of $1,750 may be charged in accordance with the Fees and Charges Schedule.

Let’s streamline assessment

As part of a commitment to continuous improvement, the Development and Planning Branch is actively looking for opportunities to streamline the assessment journey for development, in particularly development applications in accordance with Planning Act 2016.

In a bid to continue to support the facilitation of quality development outcomes as efficiently as possible, Council is encouraging Applicants to lodge all-encompassing development applications where possible, to avoid subsequent development applications/permits. Examples include (but are not limited to):

• Material Change of Use, where the development will also require a Development Permit for Operational Work.
• Operational Work which includes all elements of the work (i.e. civil, vegetation clearing, electrical, bulk earthworks etc).

Whilst Council acknowledges that this may not always be possible, a combined development application will streamline the assessment journey, avoid the potential for conflicts in the delivery of infrastructure, avoid duplication of assessment, avoid additional applications fees, and provide the opportunity to start construction sooner.

UDIA and Council Statistics Highlights for 2022

In November 2021, Council partnered with the Urban Development Institute of Australia (UDIA) as part of the Development
Assessment Monitor Dashboard initiative. The initiative supports the transparency in relation to Council’s development
assessment activity and continues to build a shared understanding of our planning system, across Queensland more broadly.

In the last 12 months, the Development & Planning Branch has significantly shifted in the performance and delivery of
the assessment functions of the Branch, with a number of achievements throughout the year including (but not limited to):

• Third highest in Queensland for the number of applications determined (behind Brisbane and Gold Coast).
• Deciding the most development applications for the comparative local government areas.
• Above average for assessment timeframes for most application types, with up to 59% decrease in assessment timeframes from the start of the year to now.
• Significant improvement in building work assessable against the planning scheme, operational works, and negotiated decisions.

In addition to this, Council in partnership with the Industry Reference Group (sub-working group) reviewed the Plan Sealing Process to ensure the process was responsive to the increased market activity and economic growth throughout the region.

As a result, the average number of days to determine a Plan of Subdivision reduced from 41 days to 21 days, with the volume of applications increasing during this time. Further, days under assessment reduced to 9 days.

In closing out 2022, it is important to recognise the efforts of the collective industry over the last 12 months. Despite the significant volume of development activity occurring across the region, the implementation of a number of business initiatives in collaboration with our industry partners has resulted in notable efficiencies in our planning development functions. These efficiencies have direct benefits to our industry, economy, community, and region.

We look forward to continuing to partner with industry to review other pain points and collaboratively resolve, noting the success that a partner approach has delivered for us all this year.

Industry Reference Group (sub-working group)

In November 2021, Council established the Industry Reference Group and Industry Reference Group (sub-working group).
The purpose of the establishment of these groups was primarily founded on solidifying a collaborative approach to working on
long-term strategic planning for the region (Industry Reference Group), and feedback and collaborative discussion regarding
the planning and development of functions of the region (Industry Reference Group (sub-working group)).

Since the establishment of the IRG (sub-working group), the forum of industry partners (Consultants and Council) has achieved a number of Key Performance Indicators which were set by the group upon inception. These include reducing assessment timeframes, implementing operational initiatives, providing clarity and certainty in development outcomes, front-loading development applications, creation of more streamlined assessment pathways, just to name a few!

Accordingly, Council wishes to advise on behalf of the IRG (sub-working group) that the group will be dissolved in 2023,and
re-established as a new and refreshed body.

The focus of the forum will continue to be founded on a collaborative and professional approach to facilitating quality development outcomes across our region, with a primary focus on collective feedback, operational initiatives, innovation, and the progression of the broader planning and development functions of our region.

This is a significant milestone for the IRG (sub-working group) and showcases the passion and dedication of our planning and
development industry, and the collective focus of planning for, and facilitating quality development outcomes which inevitably
shape our region today, and into the future.

To our industry partners who participated in the Industry Reference Group, we would like to extend our sincerest thank you for
your ongoing collaborative, professional and passionate approach. The group, and our region would not be same without you!

A revised Expression of Interest will be extended to our industry partners in early 2023. For more information in the meantime, please email the Executive Manager Development & Planning or phone (07) 4044 3176.

CairnsPlan 2016 Major Amendment #2

Drafting of the second major amendment is currently on hold pending the technical findings of the Towards 2050 Growth Strategy and finalisation of the State Government’s Planning Act amendments following the State Government Housing Summit.

The draft outcomes of the Housing Strategy will be known by mid 2023 and the scope of the amendment package will be
reviewed at this time to ensure it is fit-for-purpose, evidence based and responsive to needs of the community and industry.

Towards 2050 – Shaping Cairns Growth Strategy

The growth strategy is well and truly underway with data gathering, literature review detailed project planning being undertaken. The first phase of the community engagement has been occurring over the last couple of months.  
The objective of this initial phase has been to understand what people love about Cairns and where they live (neighbourhood level) and to raise awareness about the growth strategy project and the need to plan for growth.

To do this, Council has established a dedicated engagement website and the CRC project team have attended markets and local events across the region to talk to the community and promote the project and online survey.

Early engagement with key stakeholders from various groups and organisations has been undertaken to raise awareness about the project.   We have received a good response rate to the community survey with over 1000 surveys completed.  Data analysis will be undertaken early in the new year to provide input into the technical studies.

Be sure to visit the Towards 2050 project webpage to register your interest and be kept up to date with the project.

Infrastructure Charges Incentive Review Project

Council is well underway with a review of the Infrastructure Charges Incentives which are currently due to expire at the end of financial year. As part of this review, Council has engaged consultants to assist in determining the benefit of charges as they relate to the delivery of development aligned to Council’s strategic priorities.

Council currently acts within the COVID-19 incentives policy as well as other existing policies as they relate to infrastructure charges. To ensure incentives are contemporary and aligned with the strategy and policy framework of Council, the existing incentives framework will be reviewed to ensure policy longevity and impact. It is intended that a revised incentives framework be put to Council for consideration before the existing policy expires.

The development of a new infrastructure charges incentives policy is a significant body of work, with direct economic impact
on the development community. Targeted discussions with the Industry Reference Group will continue as the new policy takes shape. In the meantime, we welcome any comments via email.

Erosion and Sediment Control

As the wet season has now arrived, Council wishes to remind our industry partners and respective clients of the obligations and duty of care in ensuring that building and construction sites under your management have the appropriate erosion and sediment control measures in place.

Consideration should also be given to adequately protecting building and construction sites from storm events including securing sites at the end of each working day and ensuring that potential airborne materials have been adequately secured or removed.

Please be advised that the Environmental Protection Act 1994 prescribes the following contaminants that must not be released
or deposited into roadside gutters, stormwater drains and waterways:

• Ashes, clay, gravel, sediment, stones and similar organic or inorganic matter;
• Building and construction materials, including bitumen, brick, cement, concrete and plaster;
• Building, construction and demolition waste, including bitumen, brick, concrete cuttings, plaster and waste water generated by building, construction or demolition;
• Earth - meaning, sand, soil, silt or mud;
• Liquid containing suspended or dissolved solids;
• Glass, metal parts, paper, piping, plastic and scrap metal; and
• Paint, paint scrapings or residues, paint sludge, water used for diluting paint or washing painting utensils, and waste from paint stripping.

Council will be proactively monitoring active development and construction sites throughout the wet season with compliance and enforcement action (including penalties) applying to development which does not comply with the requirements prescribed by Development Permits, FNQROC Development Manual, and the Environmental Protection Act 1994.

For more information, refer to our Erosion and sediment control fact sheets or phone Development & Planning Branch on 1300 69 22 47.

Applications for Early Plan Sealing, Works Acceptance and Plan Sealing

In response to a significant volume of development activity across the region at present, the Development & Planning Branch is receiving a high volume of applications for Early Plan Sealing, Works Acceptance and Plan Sealing.

Council wishes to provide a friendly reminder to ensure that the applications are complete, and address all outstanding items,
prior to the lodgement of the application. Where the application is incomplete, this may result in significant delays in review and
assessment, and the issuance of the relevant Certificate and/or Plan of Survey.

For more information, or for help with preparing an application, please visit our Operational Works web page or contact the Development Engineering Team via 1300 692 247.

Further information regarding the Early Plan Seal and Works Acceptance process can be found within FNQROC Development Manual (version 8).

Additionally, Council is receiving a high volume of requests for inspections for matters including (but not limited to), proof rolls, compliance inspections, hold point inspections, early plan seal, works acceptance, practical completion, and final works acceptance.

Council wishes to provide a friendly reminder to ensure that the work relevant to the request for inspection is complete,
prior to the inspection being called. Should the re-inspection of works be required, a re-inspection fee of $1,750 may be charged in accordance with the Fees and Charges Schedule.

Fees & Charges for Infrastructure Agreements

Council wishes to advise that as of 3 January 2023, Council will be applying the fees and charges pertaining to Infrastructure Agreements, as per the Development Assessment Fees and Charges Schedule 2022/2023 ( PDF, 0.04 MB ). In particular, Council requires the nominated application fee to be paid upon lodgement of the request.

Please note, these charges will not apply to Infrastructure Agreements under the COVID-19 Response Investment Incentive Policy.

Cairns Titles Office Closure (permanent)

Council wishes to advise our industry partners that the Department of Resources (Cairns) has now ceased titling services.
From this point forward, titling customers will need to engage directly with Titles Queensland as Department of Resources
counters will no longer accept titles lodgements or provide titles searches.

The Department of Resources and Titles Queensland have provided the following links which may be of assistance:

• To find out more about the benefits, requirements and rules of eConveyancing, as well as Electronic Lodgement Network Operators,  visit eConveyancing - Titles Queensland.
• View the Land Title Regulation 2022 (PDF document).
• For all other information regarding Titles Queensland, refer to their Update to titling services at Department of Resources' business centres (Dec 2022).

In consideration of this, Council wishes to advise that electronic lodgement of Survey Plans will be the method for lodgement for endorsement from this point forward. For more information please visit Plan of Subdivision | Cairns Regional Council.

Executive Manager Growth and Sustainability

We would like to formally welcome Fleur Anderson to Council as our new Executive Manager – Growth & Sustainability.
Fleur has joined the Directorate’s executive leadership group alongside Kelly Barnes and Claire Simmons.

As Executive Manager, Fleur will lead both the Sustainability and Strategic Planning teams with key initiatives (among many others) being:

• Implementation of the Climate Strategy
• Implementation of the CHAS
• Oversight and direction of the Towards2050 Growth Management Program, and
• Leading our high performing staff as manager and leader of the directorate.

Fleur joins us from the Cairns Historical Society where she was Executive Officer and prior to this, she was part of the management group at City of Whittlesea. A qualified scientist, Fleur brings significant experience in the policy implementation space and is a demonstrated leader of high functioning teams and will be an excellent addition to Cairns Regional Council. During the interview process, Fleur demonstrated a clear passion for advancing Council’s key policy objectives, and her ability to lead teams with compassion, empathy and agility was a stand-out.

Coordinator Development Services (Planning)

We welcome Keanu Johnston to the position of Coordinator Development Services (Planning) within the Development & Planning Branch.

Keanu has always had a passion for people, a defined focus on empowering and supporting the team, and is highly regarded for his ability to lead the establishment of strong professional relationships with internal and external stakeholders.

Throughout his time at Council to date, Keanu’s values and approach to leadership has primarily been focused toward ensuring that the team are set up for success by establishing a foundation of effectiveness and efficiency, with a strong focus on the strategic direction of the Development Assessment Team, and the Development Services Unit more broadly. Keanu has demonstrated the importance of leading this strategic focus in conjunction with James as Coordinator Development Services (Engineering), and continually showcases a passion and drive to continue to build upon this.

Planning (Secondary Dwellings) Amendment Regulation 2022

On 26 September 2022, an amendment to the Planning Act 2016 in relation to Secondary Dwellings was adopted, by way of the Planning (Secondary Dwellings) Amendment Regulation 2022. This amendment took effect on 26 September 2022.

The amendment predominantly relates to the definition of a Household and Secondary Dwelling, with subsequent amendments to the Dwelling House, Dual Occupancy and Multiple Dwelling definitions.

• Read a copy of the Ministerial Media Statement - Granny flats for rent
• Read the Planning (Secondary Dwellings) Amendment Regulation 2022 (PDF)

Council is looking to resolve the inconsistencies between these amendments and our current planning scheme, CairnsPlan 2016. An update regarding this will be provided in due course.

Fees and charges for Infrastructure Agreements

As of 3 January 2023, Council will be applying the fees and charges pertaining to Infrastructure Agreements as per the Development Assessment Fees and Charges Schedule 2022/2023 ( PDF, 0.04 MB ). In particular, Council requires the nominated application fee to be paid upon lodgement of the request.

Erosion and sediment control

With the wet season approaching, Council reminds our industry partners of the obligations and duty of care in ensuring that building and construction sites under your management have the appropriate erosion and sediment control measures in place.

Consideration should also be given to adequately protecting building and construction sites from storm events including securing sites at the end of each working day and ensuring that potential airborne materials have been adequately secured or removed.

Please be advised that the Environmental Protection Act 1994 prescribes the following contaminants that must not be released or deposited into roadside gutters, stormwater drains and waterways:

• Ashes, clay, gravel, sediment, stones and similar organic or inorganic matter
• Building and construction materials, including bitumen, brick, cement, concrete and plaster
• Building, construction and demolition waste, including bitumen, brick, concrete cuttings, plaster and waste water generated by building construction or demolition
• Earth - meaning, sand, soil, silt or mud
• Liquid containing suspended or dissolved solids
• Glass, metal parts, paper, piping, plastic and scrap metal
• Paint, paint scrapings or residues, paint sludge, water used for diluting paint or washing painting utensils, and waste from paint stripping.

Council will be proactively monitoring active development and construction sites throughout the wet season with compliance and enforcement action (including penalties)applying to development which does not comply with the requirements prescribed by Development Permits, FNQROC Development Manual, and the Environmental Protection Act 1994.

For more information, refer to our erosion and sediment control fact sheets or contact our Development Services Team on telephone 1300 69 22 47.

Towards 2050: Shaping Cairns from the beaches to the boulders

Register you interest today to keep up to date with the project, find out about engagement opportunities and have your say Council officers will be out and about in the community throughout October to early December asking people what they love about the region and to share ideas for the future.

Visit the Towards 2050 website

Towards 2050 Local Professional Reference Group established

Council has brought together a group of local professionals to provide feedback and advice to Council throughout the development of the Towards 2050 project.  The seven local professionals who form part of the Reference Group are all highly experienced, locally based professionals who bring specific local knowledge to the project – alongside Council staff and the consultant group. The local professionals have been drawn largely from the Council’s existing Industry Reference Group.

Cairns Titles Office closure (permanent)

From noon on Friday 16 December 2022, the Department of Resources (Cairns) will cease providing titling services. After this date, titling customers will need to engage directly with Titles Queensland as Department of Resources counters will no longer accept titles lodgements or provide titles searches.

The Department of Resources have provided the following links which may be of assistance:

• eConveyancing (benefits, requirements and rules) and Electronic Lodgement Network Operators
• Land Title Regulation 2022 (PDF)

In consideration of this, Council advises that electronic lodgement of Survey Plans will be the method for lodgement for endorsement. For more information, refer to our Plan of Subdivision webpage.

As Constructed Design Certification (ACDC)

As part of our commitment to providing a responsive and streamlined service, Council has adopted the As Constructed Design Certification (ACDC) online solution for the submission of as-constructed information. ACDC, by Open Spatial, is an electronic submission portal with data validation capabilities. No additional software is required and submissions can be made from any web enabled device.

Electronic submissions will be validated against FNQROC digital standards prior to data acceptance by Council and submission for Works Acceptance as part of the development process.

Council’s adoption of ACDC is a commitment to improving the current data flow of as constructed information to enable fast turnaround on platforms used for utility identification. ACDC saves time and radically improves data quality through self-validation before submission and automates the direct loading of spatial and attribute data using pre-configured or user-defined standards.

To find out more information or to set up an account please contact Council’s GIS Team via GIS@cairns.qld.gov.au and
view our Operational Works webpage.

Please note: From 3 January 2023, Council will move more formally toward this portal. Applicants and industry partners are encouraged to contact Council prior to the end of 2022 to set up a login and start using the system in contemplation of formal adoption.

CairnsPlan 2016 v3.1

A Minor Amendment to the Planning Scheme has been formally adopted by Council, with Version 3.1 of the CairnsPlan 2016 commencing on 2 August 2022.

The Minor Amendment to the CairnsPlan 2016 seeks to integrate the Cairns South State Development Area (SDA) into the planning scheme, and it also includes an administrative amendment to the Local Government Infrastructure Plan (LGIP) to reflect the Cairns South SDA.

For any questions, email Council’s Strategic Planning team.

Infrastructure Planning & Charges

Cairns Regional Council is committed to ensuring the appropriate infrastructure in place to continue to facilitate the needs of our existing community and the growth of our region. As part of our commitment to continuous improvement and ongoing work to ensure information is publicly available, we are now pleased to advise that new content regarding Infrastructure Planning & Charges is available on Council’s website.

The new website content includes:

• Infrastructure charges and Trunk v Non-trunk factsheets.
• Application forms for Deferred Payment of Levied Charges and Not for profit waivers.
• Application form for DA’s involving trunk infrastructure.

The information as detailed above is now available on our Infrastructure planning & charges web page.

As Constructed Design Certification (ACDC)

As part of our commitment to providing a responsive and streamlined service, Council has adopted the As Constructed Design Certification (ACDC) online solution for the submission of as-constructed information. ACDC, by Open Spatial, is an electronic submission portal with data validation capabilities. No additional software is required and submissions can be made from any web enabled device.

Electronic submissions will be validated against FNQROC digital standards prior to data acceptance by Council and submission for Works Acceptance as part of the development process.

Council’s adoption of ACDC is a commitment to improving the current data flow of as constructed information to enable fast turnaround on platforms used for utility identification.

ACDC saves time and radically improves data quality through self-validation before submission and automates the direct loading of spatial and attribute data using pre-configured or user-defined standards.

To find out more information or to set up an account, please email Council’s GIS Team.

Revised Process for Plan of Subdivision

In response to a significant volume of Plan Sealing and Early Plan Sealing applications, Council have recently undertaken a review of the process to ensure the plan sealing process is responsive to the increased market activity and supports the economic growth throughout the region. The process commenced on 1 April 2022.

Key changes include:

1. Revised Application Form – Approval of Plan of Subdivision;
2. Creation of more detailed and specific information on Council’s website; and
3. Creation of the Guideline – Approval of Plan of Subdivision.

As part of Council’s commitment to ongoing improvement, Council has undertaken a comparative review of the assessment timeframes associated with the Plan of Subdivision Approval process. The average number of days to determine a Plan of Subdivision has reduced from 41 days to 21 days, with application numbers increased during this time as well.

Street Tree Planting

In response to a high volume of development applications and enquiries, Council wishes to provide the following information with regards to street tree planting.

The alignment and planting of street trees is required to be undertaken in accordance with the FNQROC Development Manual Landscaping Design Guidelines D9.07 Street Tree Planting: FNQROC Design Guidelines.

If at the time of planting the approved/endorsed locations for the street trees do not comply with the FNQROC Development Manual setback provisions such as; ‘trees are to be placed a minimum of three (3) metres from driveway’, the locations must be adjusted to achieve setback compliance.

Should the positioning of street trees depart from the requirements of the FNQROC Design Guidelines, the Applicant/Developer must notify Council in writing on completion of the planting to request for the Landscaping Practical Completion Inspection. Any changes to the endorsed landscaping (street tree locations) must be noted in red and submitted as an amendment to the Development Services Team prior to the Landscaping Practical Completion Inspection, so that Council has an accurate record of as-constructed drawings.

For more information, please contact Council’s Development Services Team via 1300 692 247.

Leadership Changes

We would like to formally welcome Claire Simmons to the position of Executive Manager, Development & Planning. After a recruitment search that attracted interstate and international talent, we are pleased to formally appoint Claire to the role. As many are aware, the Development & Planning Executive Manager role is a key role in ensuring the ongoing prosperity of the industry and Claire brings a passion to continue the cultural transition that Council is undergoing and is a very welcome addition to the executive leadership team within Council.

Claire’s appointment follows Kelly Barnes’s move to the Executive Manager, Property & Compliance position. I would like to take this opportunity to formally thank Kelly for her passion, drive, leadership and steady hands in managing the Development Services and Strategic Planning work groups. Kelly has done an excellent job in galvanising the team with the support of the business unit coordinators and will now step into the Property and Compliance branch of Council leading the Property, Environmental Health Permit & Licensing, Local Laws and Regulatory Compliance business units. Kelly is a key leader in the Directorate and will still be actively involved in the coaching, mentoring and development of the coordinators in Council as well as Executive Managers.

Council has also created a new position – Executive Manager, Growth & Sustainability. This role will look after significant policy objectives of Council as well as the delivery of key, future facing projects. Council’s transition to Net Zero by 2030 will be underpinned by organisational change as well as changes to the way in which Council does business, makes decisions and interacts with our environment. This position is foundation stone for these changes and is a significant step forward for our sustainability business units. The Executive Manager, Growth & Sustainability will also take carriage of the Towards2050 Growth Management Plan project and the strategic planning team – leading planning scheme amendments, planning policy reviews and ultimately the delivery of a new Planning Scheme. Recruitment for this role is continuing after attracting significant global interest and we will advise further and updates come to hand.

CairnsPlan 2016 planning scheme feedback

Council is currently reviewing key matters in relation to the CairnsPlan 2016 planning scheme, which is likely to result in a future Major amendment to the planning scheme.

At this time, Council welcomes and is encouraging feedback on key matters within the planning scheme to assist in informing the scope of any future amendments.

Council is requesting feedback to be supplied through the online feedback form for the CairnsPlan 2016. This can be accessed via the following link:

Due to timing on the review, it is requested that any feedback is supplied by 22 July 2022.

Please note: The online feedback form is always available on the Council’s website, however, should you wish to provide feedback to inform the scope of this review and future amendments, this is required to be supplied by the timeframe listed above.

Guidance for Local Infrastructure Planning

Cairns Regional Council is committed to ensuring the appropriate infrastructure in place to continue to facilitate the needs of our existing community and the growth of our region. The planning of this infrastructure is captured within Council’s Local Government Infrastructure Plan (LGIP), which aims to align the planning and delivery of infrastructure with the projected demand for essential community services such as sewerage, water, transport, stormwater and parks.

The Department of State Development, Infrastructure, Local Government and Planning have released the document Local Infrastructure Planning – Guidance for local governments and applicants. The guidance material provides commentary including (but not limited to) LGIP’s, conditioning Trunk Infrastructure, Infrastructure Charges, Conversation Applications, Infrastructure Charges Resolutions and Infrastructure Agreements.

Revised Process for Plan of Subdivision

In response to a significant volume of Plan Sealing and Early Plan Sealing applications, Council have recently undertaken a review of the process to ensure the plan sealing process is responsive to the increased market activity and supports the economic growth throughout the region.

Key changes include:

1. Revised Application Form – Approval of Plan of Subdivision;
2. Creation of more detailed and specific information on Council’s website; and
3. Creation of the Guideline – Approval of Plan of Subdivision.

The revised information as detailed above is now available on our Plan of Subdivision webpage.

In addition, Council is now requesting that all Plan of Subdivision Applications be lodged electronically. Applications can be lodged electronically via planningadmin@cairns.qld.gov.au.

Building Envelope Plan Mapping

As part of our ongoing work to ensure data and information is publicly available, we are pleased to advise that Building Setback Plans and Building Envelope Plans are available through Council’s Online Utility Services Maps.

The plans are displayed as blue hatching, and if you click on the Plan link – the Setback Plan/Building Envelope Plan will be displayed. This initiative aims to assist both landowners and industry in understanding whether an Approved Building Envelope applies to a property.

Updated Referral Agency Response Application Forms

As part of our commitment to continuous improvement, Council has conducted a review of the Referral Agency Application Forms which are used for Siting Dispensations where Council is a Referral Agency. The application forms now reference the Queensland Development Code’s MP1.1 and MP1.2, as well as CairnsPlan 2016 sections 1.6 and 1.8. The amendments will assist in ensuring a more streamlined assessment process and will provide an ease of reference for landowners and industry.

For more information please visit our Siting dispensation (Referral Agency assessment) webpage.

There continues to be significant development activity in Cairns, which is testament to our region’s lifestyle offering and sense of community. It’s pleasing to note that Cairns Regional Council provided the third highest number of approvals in Queensland for the December quarter (behind Brisbane and the Gold Coast). Other Councils measured in the UDIA benchmarks included:

• Moreton Bay
• Ipswich
• Logan
• Townsville
• Fraser Coast
• Toowoomba

With this volume of development activity in the region, we are actively reviewing our internal processes and improving our systems to make enhance our customer experience. We will continue to do so over the calendar year and have these key initiatives on our radar:

• Reviewing our Plan Sealing customer offer
• Towards 2050 Growth Management Plan
• Infrastructure Agreements
• Operational Works
• Internal referral processes

All of these improvement activities rely on changes to systems and culture. We actively encourage and welcome industry participation in these, so we can move forward as a collective partnership in the delivery of key growth and economic activity in the region.

Assessment benchmarks for ROL applications

We continue to receive and are assessing a number of development applications where the planning assessment has not properly considered the assessment benchmarks of the CairnsPlan 2016, specifically relating to minimum lot size.

Council will continue to assess all applications against PO1 of the Reconfiguring a Lot Code and wish to reiterate that comparisons between Dual Occupancy or Secondary Dwelling (land uses) and Reconfiguration of a Lot are not interchangeable and do not result in the same form of development. We encourage applicants to form a broader assessment against PO1 and not rely on this as a means of attempting to demonstrate compliance with the Performance Outcome.

We invite all industry consultants to engage collaboratively with us on these matters, and contact us if you have any questions about the operation of the assessment benchmarks under the CairnsPlan.

Plan Sealing process

We have been managing a significant volume of Plan Sealing and Early Plan Sealing applications off the back of increased market activity and strong economic growth. Council are actively looking to manage this volume to ensure plan sealing applications are not unduly delayed. As we look to manage this process, we will be reviewing the way in which EPS and PS applications are processed.

Whilst we undertake this review, we note:

• Applications that are not completed or inclusive of all documentation are not considered to be properly made
• We are reviewing the action notice/ request for further information process to assist in partnering with customers in the timely delivery of approvals
• Whilst information remains outstanding, assessment of applications will not restart until all information has been received.

We encourage all industry consultants to send through ideas and opportunities for improvement on the Plan Sealing process. We understand that it is a significant development milestone and are committed to partnering with the industry to streamline the process.

Electronic lodgement of Survey Plans

In an effort to streamline the lodgement and assessment of various applications across the  Development Services Unit, we are now requesting that all Survey Plan Endorsement Applications be lodged electronically. The following information is provided to assist.

Survey Plan Endorsement applications

Electronic Survey Plan Endorsement applications must be submitted as a combined PDF, without password protection activated. The preferred order of documents is as follows:

• Completed Survey Plan Endorsement Application form;
• Proof of payment of the correct application fee;
• Electronic copy of Original Subdivision Plan. (no “draft” or other watermarks);
• Compliance with conditions (including evidence, where required);
• Signed Declaration on application form or copy of Form 18A;
• Original Community Management Statement (if applicable);
• Operational Works On-Maintenance Certificate file & reference number (if applicable);
• Easement & Covenant Documents (if shown on plan as may be applicable);
• Proof of payment of all Rates & Water Charges; and
• Proof of payment of all Infrastructure Charges (updated to the current quarter- must be paid 7 working days prior to council endorsing the plan).

Applications should be lodged by email to planningadmin@cairns.qld.gov.au.

Payment of application fees and Infrastructure Charges

You can use the following BPay or Bpoint Pay links to make online payments.

• Survey Plan Endorsement application fees
• Infrastructure Charges (full amount only)

Planning Body Approval forms

Council will no longer be providing hard copy Planning Body Approval forms (Forms 18B and 18C). These forms will be sent to the Applicant electronically (via email) as a PDF. Please ensure that a current email address is provided on the Endorsement Application rorm.

Easement and Covenant documents

Easement and Covenant documents which benefit Council, and Land Transfers can still be signed in hard copy. You can either post the documents to Council (PO Box 359, Cairns), or drop them in person or via courier to Council’s Reception area in the Spence Street Chambers.

Survey Plan Endorsement Assessment

Please ensure that you complete and submit applications with all supporting documentation to avoid delays. Applications that do not address all the relevant conditions of approval and/or are submitted in parts be deemed not made.  These will be subject to the issue of a Notice advising that the application is not made.  In these cases, assessment of the application will not commence until all required information is submitted for assessment.

More information

For further information, please visit our Subdivision plan web page or contact our Development Engineering Team on 1300 692 247.

As part of our ongoing work to ensure data and information is publicly available, we are pleased to advise that Building Setback Plans and Building Envelope Plans are now hatched through Council’s Online Utility Services Maps.

The plans are displayed as blue hatching, and if you click on the Plan link – the Setback Plan / Building Envelope Plan will be displayed. This initiative aims to avoid customers needing to contact Council’s planning team via phone or email to check this information.

We are working to provide the best development services in Queensland.

To achieve this, Council endorsed a Planning & Development Service Charter in May this year, which included a commitment to progress a range of projects aimed at optimising the level of service provided to our community.

One key project is the development of a new suite of standard planning and development conditions. Council appointed an external contractor to assist in the development of the new suite of standard conditions.

Council is now seeking feedback on the draft suite of new standard planning and development conditions which have been developed. The suite of standard conditions can be viewed and downloaded from Council’s Dropbox.

The following information is noted to assist in reviewing the material:

• The Additional Conditions Database comprises the majority of the conditions Council imposes on development in its region (in updated form based on a comprehensive review of those conditions). The Database is intended to be a 'living document' that is continually being updated and refined by Council's Development Services team based on ongoing industry comment, legislation and scheme updates and changes to best industry practice. When reviewing the Database, industry representatives should provide feedback to Council in respect of any changes they might wish to see to the conditions in the Database.
• The Template MCU, OPW and ROL packages are comprised of 4 key aspects: (1) General Requirements (including Assessment Manager Conditions) (2) Specific Conditions (3) Additional Conditions and (4) General Advice.
• The Template packages include reference to the specific conditions Council has historically tended to impose on the relevant development type. The specific conditions referenced in the packages are not intended to mean Council considers these conditions should continue to apply, but merely to show what conditions have regularly been imposed in the past. Industry representatives should review these 'specific conditions' Council has tended to historically impose and provide feedback as to any changes they would like to see going forward.
• All timing aspects have been removed from the Additional Conditions Database. This is the preferred approach given that the timing aspect of a particular condition will ultimately fall to the specific circumstances of the development to be approved and Council does not want to mislead industry by having them believe that certain time aspects are fixed for particular conditions.

Feedback is being sought to ensure that the new suite of standard planning and development conditions are widely accepted by all parties actively involved in the development process.

The consultation period will be open until 5pm Friday 28 January 2022 and feedback should be provided via email to DSManagement@cairns.qld.gov.au.

Once consultation is closed, Council will update and finalise the new suite of standard planning and development conditions. They will then be published on Council’s website and will be implemented by Council’s Development Services Team.

Help us shape the next amendment to the CairnsPlan 2016 - Part 5 – Tables of assessment.

We are seeking industry input to inform the next major amendment to the CairnsPlan 2016. Council is undertaking a review of the workability and effectiveness of Part 5 – Tables of assessment, including the levels of assessment. We appreciate that this is busy time of the year for everyone, so we have developed a short survey to capture your input.

We encourage everyone to take part in the survey.

The survey will be open until 22 December 2021.

The next major amendment will also address a range of other matters, including a review of the Reconfiguring a Lot code. Future updates on these other amendment topics will be provided in due course.

New Development Services Pre-lodgement Process

In line with the Planning and Development Service Charter, Council will be rolling out a revised Pre-lodgement Process for the Development Services team.
Key changes include:

• The introduction of ‘Talk to a Planner’ sessions: Talk to a Planner sessions will be a pre-booked 30 minute 1-on-1 with a Planning Officer to discuss a development proposal. Sessions will be held weekly Wednesday (9:00am to 12:00pm) and are open to all members of the public. Bookings must be made in advance to allow time for Officers to review development proposals. Minimum requirements to secure a Talk to a Planner session will be a set of plans.
• Rigour around the Pre-lodgement Meeting process and the distribution of meeting minutes. Council have prepared a pre-lodgement meeting minute template and Officers have committed to the distribution of meeting minutes at the conclusion of a pre-lodgement or project meeting.
  To allow time for a pre-lodgement proposal to be reviewed internally by all necessary technical departments, a pre-lodgement meeting will generally be arranged fifteen (15) business days from receipt of the request.
• Revised Written Pre-lodgement Advice process, forms and templates. A notable change to Written Pre-lodgement Advice is the identification of key matters and direct responses. To allow time for a pre-lodgement proposal to be reviewed internally by all necessary technical departments, pre-lodgement advice will generally be issued fifteen (15) business days from receipt of the request.

The project team aim to consolidate the separate Development Enquiries and Pre-lodgement services on Council’s website, which will be accompanied by a detailed description of the individual services, minimum requirements and general information/FAQs.
The new process is currently being trialled internally, and will be implemented on and from 29 November 2021.
Please email us if there are any queries on the proposed changes.

New Development Assessment Timeframe Monitoring Data

Council has been working to update our development assessment timeframe reporting to allow us to join the Urban Development Institute of Australia Queensland (UDIA) Development Assessment Monitor Dashboard. This initiative supports transparency in relation to Council’s development assessment activity and continues to build a share understanding of activity and challenges across our planning system. Council will formally join the UDIA for the next reporting period, being Quarter 4 2021.

Planning and Development Industry Reference Group

Council held its first Planning and Development Industry Reference Group meeting on 9 November 2021. The Reference Group works collaboratively with us on long-term strategic planning for the region and strategic advice about our planning and development functions. Copies of the agenda and minutes have now been published on our website, which will be updated after each meeting.

Draft Plan Outlines Bold Climate Actions

Council’s Draft Climate Change Strategy 2030 has been released and is now open for public consultation until 31 January 2021. Mayor Bob Manning said Cairns was particularly vulnerable to the potential impacts of climate change and it was important that Council takes action: “Our Climate Change Strategy 2030 will provide a pathway to mitigating and adapting to the impacts of climate change, it will embed environmental considerations into our organisation and operations and support a Smart Green Economy.”

The proposed strategy outlines four key commitments:

1. Net zero emissions for Council operations by 2030;
2. Council electricity supplied from 100% renewable energy;
3. Support community progress towards Queensland’s emissions reductions target of 30% below 2005 levels by 2030 and net zero emissions by 2050; and
4. Prepare Council and the community to adapt and prosper in a changing climate.

Of particular interest to the industry are the actions around the built environment including planning for sustainable growth, consideration of climate change risks when preparing Council’s new planning scheme and master plans, supporting the transition to a low emissions built environment, addressing urban heat and water, and working with nature to protect and restore our cities including biodiversity and catchment planning.

Consultation is open until 31 January 2022 and we encourage everyone to have your say on the Draft Climate Change Strategy.

Erosion and Sediment Control Reminder for 2021-2022 Wet Season

With the wet season approaching, Council offers a reminder of your obligations and duty of care in ensuring that building and construction sites under your management have the appropriate erosion and sediment control measures in place. Consideration should also be given to adequately protecting building and construction sites from storm events including securing sites at the end of each working day and ensuring that potential airborne materials have been adequately secured or removed.
Please be advised that the Environmental Protection Act 1994 prescribes the following contaminants that must not be released or deposited into roadside gutters, stormwater drains and waterways:

• Ashes, clay, gravel, sediment, stones and similar organic or inorganic matter;
• Building and construction materials, including bitumen, brick, cement, concrete and plaster;
• Building, construction and demolition waste, including bitumen, brick, concrete cuttings, plaster and waste water generated by building, construction or demolition;
• Earth - meaning, sand, soil, silt or mud;
• Liquid containing suspended or dissolved solids;
• Glass, metal parts, paper, piping, plastic and scrap metal;
• Paint, paint scrapings or residues, paint sludge, water used for diluting paint or washing painting utensils, and waste from paint stripping;

Please be advised that penalties may apply for non-compliance. Should you require any further information, fact sheets can be obtained on Council’s website.

Council’s Planning and Environment Team Recognised through Awards

Council’s Planning and Environment Team have been recognised through the awarding of multiple awards this month.

Sarah Gibson – 2021 Minister’s Planning Award Winner
Sarah, a planning officer within Council’s Development Assessment team, was awarded the 2021 Minister’s Planning Award for best thesis or research project.
Housing supply, diversity and affordability is one of the most significant contemporary issues effecting people across the state. Sarah’s exploration into key opportunities and limitations for medium density housing to address key urban development challenges in Cairns, provides a practical contribution to how diverse forms of medium density housing could support effective infill to help regional centres like Cairns achieve housing affordability, housing diversity and sustainable urban growth. Sarah’s holistic consideration of planning for this housing typology in a regional context represents a significant advancement of regional or town planning techniques.

Designing for Density in the Tropics
Council’s Strategic Planning team received a Commendation at the recent Queensland Planning Institute of Australia awards for Excellence in Improving Planning Processes. Designing for Density in the Tropics provides guidance for design of a range of housing typologies to suit the tropical environment of Cairns. The Planning Institute of Australia Queensland commemorative book is now available here and we take this opportunity to congratulate the other recipients, who have been recognised for reinforcing the value and role of planning across Queensland.

National climate action champions
Council’s Sustainability Team won the National Climate Champion award at the recent Climate Councils Cities Power Partnership awards hosted by Craig Reucassel.
The team was recognised for their work in community engagement, including youth, community and industry climate summits, and taking strong action in emissions reduction.

Cairns Regional Council Charges Resolution No.2 of 2021

Earlier today, Council resolved to adopt the Cairns Regional Council Charges Resolution No.2 of 2021.

The new Charges Resolution merely corrects a drafting error in the No.1 of 2021 version. In particular, Council has corrected the Base Charge Rates, Item 6 – Tourist Park (b) in schedule 1 to refer to ‘cabins’ rather than ‘sites’ as prescribed under the Planning Regulations 2017. There has been no increase in the value of the charge for this land use.

The Cairns Regional Council Charges Resolution No.2 of 2021 ( PDF, 1.48 MB ) will formally commence on Thursday 11 November 2021.

The first major amendment to the CairnsPlan 2016 has been formally adopted by Council following a review by the Deputy Premier and Minister for State Development, Infrastructure, Local Government and Planning. Ministerial approval was the last step in a 16-month project, creating a more streamlined and efficient process for managing development in the city.

The changes proposed through the Major Amendment:

• address community and development industry feedback;
• improve efficiency of the scheme;
• remove unnecessary triggers for development applications;
• update planning scheme mapping;
• ensure the planning scheme is contemporary and complies with the requirements of the Planning Act 2016; and
• reflect the outcomes of the Freshwater and Stratford Town Planning Survey 2019.

A Minor Amendment and amendments to Council’s Planning Scheme Policies was also concurrently adopted and will be incorporated into CairnsPlan 2016 Version 3.0. The Minor Amendment incorporated updates to the State mapping for the State Heritage Places on 5 August 2021 and the Matters of Environmental Significance (MSES) on 8 September 2021, ensuring the most up to date mapping is reflected in the adopted version of the CairnsPlan 2016.

CairnsPlan Version 3 will formally commence on Tuesday 26 October 2021. For any questions, contact Council’s Strategic Planning team via email at planningscheme@cairns.qld.gov.au.

Industry alert - 28 September 2021

• New Planning and Development Fees and Charges
• Appointment of Senior Planner - Infrastructure Coordination
• Community Residence

Industry alert - 20 September 2021

• Nominations invited for new Planning & Development Industry Reference Group

Industry alert - 6 September 2021

• Assessment benchmarks for ROL applications
• Applications involving Trunk Infrastructure
• New Infrastructure Agreement templates
• Operational Works applications

Industry alert - 24 August 2021

• New assessment process for Referral Agency applications
• As Constructed Design Certification
• Proposed CairnsPlan 2016 Major Amendment
• Next round of Planning Scheme amendments
• Have your say on coastal hazard planning

Industry alert - 15 July 2021

• New Charges Resolution
• Appointment of Manager - Development, Planning and Property
• Designing for Density in the Tropics
• Cairns cemeteries in the spotlight
• Our Cairns Coast strategy
• Proposed CairnsPlan 2016 Major Amendment
• Covid-19 Response Investment Incentive update