Upcoming changes to infrastructure charges from 1 January 2022

Infrastructure charges for several development types will increase come 1 January 2022, to better cover costs to the community.

The changes will apply to some categories under non-residential commercial development and non-residential other development.

General Manager Communities John McDougall said the charges, which have not changed since council’s Planning Scheme started in 2016, needed to be brought in line with the current economic climate.

‘‘As part of this review, we undertook a benchmarking exercise to compare our rates to councils of similar population size across Queensland with particular focus on our closest neighbours,’ he said.

‘These increases better align us with the economy but also ensure our charges remain some of the most affordable in the state, confirming our commitment to growth and development in the region.’

Mr McDougall said the charges helped council cover the associated costs of delivering or upgrading major trunk infrastructure.

‘Trunk infrastructure are things such as water supply, roads, sewerage, regional parks and footpaths. Infrastructure charges make sure developers contribute to their use of these networks and the community isn’t bearing the entire cost,’ he said.

Council invited 50 organisations from the development, building and construction, real estate, consulting and state government industries to participate in a series of workshops about the changes in September 2021.

‘All of the feedback received was really positive and we thank everyone who took part,’ Mr McDougall said.

Mr McDougall also reminded potential developers of council’s Regional Economic Development Incentive program, providing stimulus to anyone seeking to start, expand or upgrade a business in the Central Highlands.

The charge increases will come into effect on 1 January 2022 and will only be applicable to development applications decided after this date.

Changes will apply to:

For the full list of charges head here.