• Hosting international teams (pre-games training): Due to its prime position, the Cowboys Community, Training and High-Performance Centre provides services to enable pre-games training based on Olympic standards.
• Upgrading local sporting facilities: Upgrades to these venues will elevate North Queensland’s influence on the Games. Not only will this investment offer local support groups and professional clubs access to top-tier facilities, but it also establishes a lasting legacy for regional Queensland beyond the Games’ conclusion.
• Hosting preliminary events: The recently completed Queensland Country Bank Stadium, boasting 25,000 seats, positions the city to successfully host preliminary sporting events during the 2032 Olympics, including football and rugby matches. While Townsville is slated to welcome preliminary and quarter-final football matches, the region’s versatile facilities also make it a suitable host for various other events in North Queensland during the games.

A northern oasis of opportunity

While the region’s traditional pillars – agriculture, defence, and resource – continue to flourish, North Queensland is also witnessing the emergence of dynamic industries. Advanced manufacturing and renewable energy are the flag bearers of innovation, reshaping the economic landscape. 

However, despite its many attractions, North Queensland is not without challenges on the horizon. Over the next 25 years, the region will grapple with shifts in demographics, increased urbanisation, and structural movements within the regional economy. 

In response to the evolving landscape, the North Queensland (NQ) Regional Plan was created as a pioneering framework, aimed at capitalising on the region’s growth, prosperity, and diversity.

The economic roadmap includes:

• Cultivating new industrial areas: North Queensland has planned the development of fresh industrial areas, along with the necessary infrastructure. These new zones will be instrumental in supporting the growth of advanced manufacturing and other emerging industries, ensuring they thrive.
• Expanding tourism offerings: The region is actively encouraging high-quality visitor experiences with the development of new tourism attractions. This will further cement North Queensland’s reputation as a must-visit destination.
• Leading the charge in green energy: The goal is to emerge as a national leader in the green energy sector, harnessing its abundant resources to power a sustainable future.

Need assistance with an upcoming development in the region?

North Queensland is a land of diverse opportunities with key investment and infrastructure projects shaping the future of this vibrant region.

BRS is well-resourced and positioned to assist in providing our civil engineering, urban planning, and project management services for your next project in North Queensland.

If you have any questions about further opportunities for growth or how we can assist with your development, please don’t hesitate to get in touch.

Cover image sourced via Unsplash.

North Queensland has five major regional centres – namely Burdekin, Charters Towers, Hinchinbrook, Palm Island, and Townsville. This dynamic region plays a pivotal role in the state’s economy, contributing an impressive annual sum of over $17.1 billion.

Strategically positioned at the crossroads of rail, road, sea, and air transport networks, North Queensland serves as a vital gateway for the movement of goods and services, facilitating an annual export value exceeding $13.7 billion, both domestically and internationally. 

The leading five industries which contribute a total of $34.37 billion include:

• Public administration and safety (comprising defence, public order, safety, and regulatory services)
• Manufacturing
• Construction
• Rental, hiring, and real estate services
• Health care and social assistance

Investing in North Queensland’s future

In addition to its strong pipeline of projects, Queensland is also set to be the proud host of the 2032 Summer Olympic and Paralympic Games. This monumental event will be supported by a substantial $4.5 billion investment, jointly funded by the Queensland and Australian governments. These funds will be allocated towards the construction of essential sports venues and necessary infrastructure projects spanning the entirety of the state, including Townsville.

According to the recently published Townsville North Queensland Strategic Regional Industry Growth Plan, there are three main opportunities for this region:

• Hosting international teams (pre-games training): Due to its prime position, the Cowboys Community, Training and High-Performance Centre provides services to enable pre-games training based on Olympic standards.
• Upgrading local sporting facilities: Upgrades to these venues will elevate North Queensland’s influence on the Games. Not only will this investment offer local support groups and professional clubs access to top-tier facilities, but it also establishes a lasting legacy for regional Queensland beyond the Games’ conclusion.
• Hosting preliminary events: The recently completed Queensland Country Bank Stadium, boasting 25,000 seats, positions the city to successfully host preliminary sporting events during the 2032 Olympics, including football and rugby matches. While Townsville is slated to welcome preliminary and quarter-final football matches, the region’s versatile facilities also make it a suitable host for various other events in North Queensland during the games.

A northern oasis of opportunity

While the region’s traditional pillars – agriculture, defence, and resource – continue to flourish, North Queensland is also witnessing the emergence of dynamic industries. Advanced manufacturing and renewable energy are the flag bearers of innovation, reshaping the economic landscape. 

However, despite its many attractions, North Queensland is not without challenges on the horizon. Over the next 25 years, the region will grapple with shifts in demographics, increased urbanisation, and structural movements within the regional economy. 

In response to the evolving landscape, the North Queensland (NQ) Regional Plan was created as a pioneering framework, aimed at capitalising on the region’s growth, prosperity, and diversity.

The economic roadmap includes:

• Cultivating new industrial areas: North Queensland has planned the development of fresh industrial areas, along with the necessary infrastructure. These new zones will be instrumental in supporting the growth of advanced manufacturing and other emerging industries, ensuring they thrive.
• Expanding tourism offerings: The region is actively encouraging high-quality visitor experiences with the development of new tourism attractions. This will further cement North Queensland’s reputation as a must-visit destination.
• Leading the charge in green energy: The goal is to emerge as a national leader in the green energy sector, harnessing its abundant resources to power a sustainable future.

Need assistance with an upcoming development in the region?

North Queensland is a land of diverse opportunities with key investment and infrastructure projects shaping the future of this vibrant region.

BRS is well-resourced and positioned to assist in providing our civil engineering, urban planning, and project management services for your next project in North Queensland.

If you have any questions about further opportunities for growth or how we can assist with your development, please don’t hesitate to get in touch.

Cover image sourced via Unsplash.

Encompassing cities like Townsville, Cairns, and Mackay, North Queensland has experienced steady population growth over the years. This expansion can be attributed to a combination of factors highlighting its unique appeal.

From the iconic natural wonders and stunning coastal landscapes, to the enviable climate and relaxed lifestyle – the allure of these attractions draws both domestic and international tourists. It also entices people to make North Queensland their permanent home.

Boasting a population of 239,859 in 2021, this figure is projected to experience a notable increase, with a projection of 324,317 residents by the year 2041. This growth trajectory underscores the region’s appeal and its promising outlook for the future.

The rise to prosperity

North Queensland has five major regional centres – namely Burdekin, Charters Towers, Hinchinbrook, Palm Island, and Townsville. This dynamic region plays a pivotal role in the state’s economy, contributing an impressive annual sum of over $17.1 billion.

Strategically positioned at the crossroads of rail, road, sea, and air transport networks, North Queensland serves as a vital gateway for the movement of goods and services, facilitating an annual export value exceeding $13.7 billion, both domestically and internationally. 

The leading five industries which contribute a total of $34.37 billion include:

• Public administration and safety (comprising defence, public order, safety, and regulatory services)
• Manufacturing
• Construction
• Rental, hiring, and real estate services
• Health care and social assistance

Investing in North Queensland’s future

In addition to its strong pipeline of projects, Queensland is also set to be the proud host of the 2032 Summer Olympic and Paralympic Games. This monumental event will be supported by a substantial $4.5 billion investment, jointly funded by the Queensland and Australian governments. These funds will be allocated towards the construction of essential sports venues and necessary infrastructure projects spanning the entirety of the state, including Townsville.

According to the recently published Townsville North Queensland Strategic Regional Industry Growth Plan, there are three main opportunities for this region:

• Hosting international teams (pre-games training): Due to its prime position, the Cowboys Community, Training and High-Performance Centre provides services to enable pre-games training based on Olympic standards.
• Upgrading local sporting facilities: Upgrades to these venues will elevate North Queensland’s influence on the Games. Not only will this investment offer local support groups and professional clubs access to top-tier facilities, but it also establishes a lasting legacy for regional Queensland beyond the Games’ conclusion.
• Hosting preliminary events: The recently completed Queensland Country Bank Stadium, boasting 25,000 seats, positions the city to successfully host preliminary sporting events during the 2032 Olympics, including football and rugby matches. While Townsville is slated to welcome preliminary and quarter-final football matches, the region’s versatile facilities also make it a suitable host for various other events in North Queensland during the games.

A northern oasis of opportunity

While the region’s traditional pillars – agriculture, defence, and resource – continue to flourish, North Queensland is also witnessing the emergence of dynamic industries. Advanced manufacturing and renewable energy are the flag bearers of innovation, reshaping the economic landscape. 

However, despite its many attractions, North Queensland is not without challenges on the horizon. Over the next 25 years, the region will grapple with shifts in demographics, increased urbanisation, and structural movements within the regional economy. 

In response to the evolving landscape, the North Queensland (NQ) Regional Plan was created as a pioneering framework, aimed at capitalising on the region’s growth, prosperity, and diversity.

The economic roadmap includes:

• Cultivating new industrial areas: North Queensland has planned the development of fresh industrial areas, along with the necessary infrastructure. These new zones will be instrumental in supporting the growth of advanced manufacturing and other emerging industries, ensuring they thrive.
• Expanding tourism offerings: The region is actively encouraging high-quality visitor experiences with the development of new tourism attractions. This will further cement North Queensland’s reputation as a must-visit destination.
• Leading the charge in green energy: The goal is to emerge as a national leader in the green energy sector, harnessing its abundant resources to power a sustainable future.

Need assistance with an upcoming development in the region?

North Queensland is a land of diverse opportunities with key investment and infrastructure projects shaping the future of this vibrant region.

BRS is well-resourced and positioned to assist in providing our civil engineering, urban planning, and project management services for your next project in North Queensland.

If you have any questions about further opportunities for growth or how we can assist with your development, please don’t hesitate to get in touch.

Cover image sourced via Unsplash.

• New Dwelling house or extension
• Reconfiguring a lot (up to 5 lots)
• Low and medium impact industry and Warehouse (ex General industry C)
• Centre activities in a Centre zone (in certain situations)
• Prescribed tidal works
• Educational establishment (no increase to student capacity)
• Any other low risk code assessable development where technical matters have been managed via Council‚Äôs prelodgement services.

Each of these development types comes with its own set of criteria for eligibility. The process for lodging an Express DA is as follows:

• Step 1 – Check your eligibility: Check if your application meets the lodgement and application type criteria.
• Step 2 – Assess your proposal: Assess the proposal against the relevant requirements in Brisbane City Plan 2014.
• Step 3 – Prepare your application: Complete the RiskSMART planning report template.
• Step 4 – Lodge your application: Complete the RiskSMART well-made checklist and lodge online.

How BRS can assist you

When it comes to fast-tracking development applications, BRS stands as a reliable partner. With our comprehensive services and dedication to efficiency, we work with our clients to help you navigate the intricate process with confidence and ease. 

With a diverse range of expertise and services, BRS can help by providing urban planning, civil engineering, and project management services across Queensland. Our comprehensive approach ensures smooth coordination and streamlined project execution, enabling our clients to achieve their goals efficiently.

Cover image sourced via Unsplash.

The process for lodging an Express DA is as follows:

• Step 1 – Check your eligibility: Check if your application meets the eligibility requirements detailed in the Express development application – applicant guidelines.
• Step 2 – Prepare your application: Prepare your application following the Express development application resources.
• Step 3 – Submit your application for a pre-submission review: All Express DAs must go through a pre-submission review to ensure the application has all the necessary information for assessment and is ready to lodge. This step is mandatory for all potential Express DA applications and can be lodged via email, by mail, or in person.
• Step 4 – Finalise your application: Once you receive a Lodgement Ready Letter, you can lodge your application for assessment online, by mail, or in person.

Fast-tracking development applications via RiskSMART in Brisbane

Brisbane fast-tracks the assessment of eligible development types through its RiskSMART process in certain circumstances. Eligible RiskSMART development applications enjoy an expedited 10-day decision timeframe.

Eligible development supported by RiskSMART include:

• New Dwelling house or extension
• Reconfiguring a lot (up to 5 lots)
• Low and medium impact industry and Warehouse (ex General industry C)
• Centre activities in a Centre zone (in certain situations)
• Prescribed tidal works
• Educational establishment (no increase to student capacity)
• Any other low risk code assessable development where technical matters have been managed via Council‚Äôs prelodgement services.

Each of these development types comes with its own set of criteria for eligibility. The process for lodging an Express DA is as follows:

• Step 1 – Check your eligibility: Check if your application meets the lodgement and application type criteria.
• Step 2 – Assess your proposal: Assess the proposal against the relevant requirements in Brisbane City Plan 2014.
• Step 3 – Prepare your application: Complete the RiskSMART planning report template.
• Step 4 – Lodge your application: Complete the RiskSMART well-made checklist and lodge online.

How BRS can assist you

When it comes to fast-tracking development applications, BRS stands as a reliable partner. With our comprehensive services and dedication to efficiency, we work with our clients to help you navigate the intricate process with confidence and ease. 

With a diverse range of expertise and services, BRS can help by providing urban planning, civil engineering, and project management services across Queensland. Our comprehensive approach ensures smooth coordination and streamlined project execution, enabling our clients to achieve their goals efficiently.

Cover image sourced via Unsplash.

Gold Coast’s Express Development Applications process offers applicants the ability to submit development applications through an expedited assessment process providing certain criteria can be achieved. Applications that meet this criteria are typically assessed within 10 to 15 business days from lodgement.

Eligible land uses supported by Express DA includes: 

• Dual occupancy
• Multiple dwelling (ranging from 3 to 10 dwellings)
• Food and drink outlets
• Health care services
• Office spaces
• Retail shops
• Low-impact industries
• Warehouses

The process for lodging an Express DA is as follows:

• Step 1 – Check your eligibility: Check if your application meets the eligibility requirements detailed in the Express development application – applicant guidelines.
• Step 2 – Prepare your application: Prepare your application following the Express development application resources.
• Step 3 – Submit your application for a pre-submission review: All Express DAs must go through a pre-submission review to ensure the application has all the necessary information for assessment and is ready to lodge. This step is mandatory for all potential Express DA applications and can be lodged via email, by mail, or in person.
• Step 4 – Finalise your application: Once you receive a Lodgement Ready Letter, you can lodge your application for assessment online, by mail, or in person.

Fast-tracking development applications via RiskSMART in Brisbane

Brisbane fast-tracks the assessment of eligible development types through its RiskSMART process in certain circumstances. Eligible RiskSMART development applications enjoy an expedited 10-day decision timeframe.

Eligible development supported by RiskSMART include:

• New Dwelling house or extension
• Reconfiguring a lot (up to 5 lots)
• Low and medium impact industry and Warehouse (ex General industry C)
• Centre activities in a Centre zone (in certain situations)
• Prescribed tidal works
• Educational establishment (no increase to student capacity)
• Any other low risk code assessable development where technical matters have been managed via Council‚Äôs prelodgement services.

Each of these development types comes with its own set of criteria for eligibility. The process for lodging an Express DA is as follows:

• Step 1 – Check your eligibility: Check if your application meets the lodgement and application type criteria.
• Step 2 – Assess your proposal: Assess the proposal against the relevant requirements in Brisbane City Plan 2014.
• Step 3 – Prepare your application: Complete the RiskSMART planning report template.
• Step 4 – Lodge your application: Complete the RiskSMART well-made checklist and lodge online.

How BRS can assist you

When it comes to fast-tracking development applications, BRS stands as a reliable partner. With our comprehensive services and dedication to efficiency, we work with our clients to help you navigate the intricate process with confidence and ease. 

With a diverse range of expertise and services, BRS can help by providing urban planning, civil engineering, and project management services across Queensland. Our comprehensive approach ensures smooth coordination and streamlined project execution, enabling our clients to achieve their goals efficiently.

Cover image sourced via Unsplash.

Development applications are assessed through a standard development assessment process, which can often result in a lengthy assessment process, and subsequently, delays in the delivery of development on the ground.

However, in acknowledgement that not all development is high risk or complex, many Councils across Queensland offer a fast-tracked assessment process created specifically for low complexity, decision ready development applications. This supports a quicker assessment process for a number of development types, enabling these developments to be delivered faster.

Fast-tracked development applications entail prioritising certain development that aligns with predetermined criteria – and expediting their assessment and approval. This approach accelerates the delivery of development whilst adhering to regulatory frameworks.

The benefits of the fast-tracked development assessment process include:

• Reduced uncertainty: Developers can face uncertainty due to prolonged approval timeframes often resulting in longer holding costs, and uncertainty in construction scheduling. Fast-tracking of low risk / low complexity development offers a reduced timeline for decision-making, enabling projects to be better planned for and resources allocated.
• Meeting urban needs: In rapidly growing urban areas like Queensland, there is a constant demand for new infrastructure, housing, and commercial spaces. Fast-tracking development approvals helps meet these needs in a timely and more cost effective manner.
• Balancing quality and speed: Fast-tracking doesn’t mean cutting corners. Projects still undergo rigorous assessment to ensure they adhere to regulations, assessment benchmarks, and community interests.

Express development applications in the Gold Coast

Gold Coast’s Express Development Applications process offers applicants the ability to submit development applications through an expedited assessment process providing certain criteria can be achieved. Applications that meet this criteria are typically assessed within 10 to 15 business days from lodgement.

Eligible land uses supported by Express DA includes: 

• Dual occupancy
• Multiple dwelling (ranging from 3 to 10 dwellings)
• Food and drink outlets
• Health care services
• Office spaces
• Retail shops
• Low-impact industries
• Warehouses

The process for lodging an Express DA is as follows:

• Step 1 – Check your eligibility: Check if your application meets the eligibility requirements detailed in the Express development application – applicant guidelines.
• Step 2 – Prepare your application: Prepare your application following the Express development application resources.
• Step 3 – Submit your application for a pre-submission review: All Express DAs must go through a pre-submission review to ensure the application has all the necessary information for assessment and is ready to lodge. This step is mandatory for all potential Express DA applications and can be lodged via email, by mail, or in person.
• Step 4 – Finalise your application: Once you receive a Lodgement Ready Letter, you can lodge your application for assessment online, by mail, or in person.

Fast-tracking development applications via RiskSMART in Brisbane

Brisbane fast-tracks the assessment of eligible development types through its RiskSMART process in certain circumstances. Eligible RiskSMART development applications enjoy an expedited 10-day decision timeframe.

Eligible development supported by RiskSMART include:

• New Dwelling house or extension
• Reconfiguring a lot (up to 5 lots)
• Low and medium impact industry and Warehouse (ex General industry C)
• Centre activities in a Centre zone (in certain situations)
• Prescribed tidal works
• Educational establishment (no increase to student capacity)
• Any other low risk code assessable development where technical matters have been managed via Council‚Äôs prelodgement services.

Each of these development types comes with its own set of criteria for eligibility. The process for lodging an Express DA is as follows:

• Step 1 – Check your eligibility: Check if your application meets the lodgement and application type criteria.
• Step 2 – Assess your proposal: Assess the proposal against the relevant requirements in Brisbane City Plan 2014.
• Step 3 – Prepare your application: Complete the RiskSMART planning report template.
• Step 4 – Lodge your application: Complete the RiskSMART well-made checklist and lodge online.

How BRS can assist you

When it comes to fast-tracking development applications, BRS stands as a reliable partner. With our comprehensive services and dedication to efficiency, we work with our clients to help you navigate the intricate process with confidence and ease. 

With a diverse range of expertise and services, BRS can help by providing urban planning, civil engineering, and project management services across Queensland. Our comprehensive approach ensures smooth coordination and streamlined project execution, enabling our clients to achieve their goals efficiently.

Cover image sourced via Unsplash.

Queensland currently stands as a dynamic and vibrant region marked by its stunning landscapes, urban growth, and forward-thinking development strategies. 

From the picturesque beaches of the Gold Coast to the bustling heart of Brisbane, each development project is facilitated through a structured and regulated process. In this article, we explore the concept of fast-tracked development applications – a process Queensland has embraced to streamline lower risk and sought after development types to support growth while maintaining quality and sustainability.

What are the advantages of fast-tracking development applications?

Development applications are assessed through a standard development assessment process, which can often result in a lengthy assessment process, and subsequently, delays in the delivery of development on the ground.

However, in acknowledgement that not all development is high risk or complex, many Councils across Queensland offer a fast-tracked assessment process created specifically for low complexity, decision ready development applications. This supports a quicker assessment process for a number of development types, enabling these developments to be delivered faster.

Fast-tracked development applications entail prioritising certain development that aligns with predetermined criteria – and expediting their assessment and approval. This approach accelerates the delivery of development whilst adhering to regulatory frameworks.

The benefits of the fast-tracked development assessment process include:

• Reduced uncertainty: Developers can face uncertainty due to prolonged approval timeframes often resulting in longer holding costs, and uncertainty in construction scheduling. Fast-tracking of low risk / low complexity development offers a reduced timeline for decision-making, enabling projects to be better planned for and resources allocated.
• Meeting urban needs: In rapidly growing urban areas like Queensland, there is a constant demand for new infrastructure, housing, and commercial spaces. Fast-tracking development approvals helps meet these needs in a timely and more cost effective manner.
• Balancing quality and speed: Fast-tracking doesn’t mean cutting corners. Projects still undergo rigorous assessment to ensure they adhere to regulations, assessment benchmarks, and community interests.

Express development applications in the Gold Coast

Gold Coast’s Express Development Applications process offers applicants the ability to submit development applications through an expedited assessment process providing certain criteria can be achieved. Applications that meet this criteria are typically assessed within 10 to 15 business days from lodgement.

Eligible land uses supported by Express DA includes: 

• Dual occupancy
• Multiple dwelling (ranging from 3 to 10 dwellings)
• Food and drink outlets
• Health care services
• Office spaces
• Retail shops
• Low-impact industries
• Warehouses

The process for lodging an Express DA is as follows:

• Step 1 – Check your eligibility: Check if your application meets the eligibility requirements detailed in the Express development application – applicant guidelines.
• Step 2 – Prepare your application: Prepare your application following the Express development application resources.
• Step 3 – Submit your application for a pre-submission review: All Express DAs must go through a pre-submission review to ensure the application has all the necessary information for assessment and is ready to lodge. This step is mandatory for all potential Express DA applications and can be lodged via email, by mail, or in person.
• Step 4 – Finalise your application: Once you receive a Lodgement Ready Letter, you can lodge your application for assessment online, by mail, or in person.

Fast-tracking development applications via RiskSMART in Brisbane

Brisbane fast-tracks the assessment of eligible development types through its RiskSMART process in certain circumstances. Eligible RiskSMART development applications enjoy an expedited 10-day decision timeframe.

Eligible development supported by RiskSMART include:

• New Dwelling house or extension
• Reconfiguring a lot (up to 5 lots)
• Low and medium impact industry and Warehouse (ex General industry C)
• Centre activities in a Centre zone (in certain situations)
• Prescribed tidal works
• Educational establishment (no increase to student capacity)
• Any other low risk code assessable development where technical matters have been managed via Council‚Äôs prelodgement services.

Each of these development types comes with its own set of criteria for eligibility. The process for lodging an Express DA is as follows:

• Step 1 – Check your eligibility: Check if your application meets the lodgement and application type criteria.
• Step 2 – Assess your proposal: Assess the proposal against the relevant requirements in Brisbane City Plan 2014.
• Step 3 – Prepare your application: Complete the RiskSMART planning report template.
• Step 4 – Lodge your application: Complete the RiskSMART well-made checklist and lodge online.

How BRS can assist you

When it comes to fast-tracking development applications, BRS stands as a reliable partner. With our comprehensive services and dedication to efficiency, we work with our clients to help you navigate the intricate process with confidence and ease. 

With a diverse range of expertise and services, BRS can help by providing urban planning, civil engineering, and project management services across Queensland. Our comprehensive approach ensures smooth coordination and streamlined project execution, enabling our clients to achieve their goals efficiently.

Cover image sourced via Unsplash.