The Fraser Coast is a vibrant and growing region of more than 120,000 people - growing at around 2.4% per year over the past four years.

It is anticipated that by 2044 the region will be home to more than 140,266 people. With this growth we need a clear plan for how our region will grow and change into the future. The new planning scheme will help Council manage this growth and support a diverse, vibrant and resilient Fraser Coast.

How does a planning scheme work?

What does a planning scheme do?

A planning scheme is one of the main tools Council uses to manage growth so we can create well-designed, safe and liveable neighbourhoods, while protecting the things we value most about our region. Put simply, a planning scheme is the local “rule book” and blueprint for how land can be used and developed in a local government area.

The planning scheme:

  • does not change existing lawful uses on your property – if your current use was established lawfully, it can generally continue
  • can affect future changes you or others may want to make – such as extensions, new buildings, subdivisions or a change in use (for example, from a house to a home-based business)
  • helps shape the type and scale of development in your neighbourhood, including
    • building heights and density
    • land uses around you (homes, shops, industry, parks)
    • how natural hazards and environmental values are managed.

This is why it’s important to understand which zones, overlays and codes apply to your property and local area, and to get involved when Council consults on changes to the planning scheme.

The planning scheme is used by:

  • Council planners – to assess development applications and ensure proposals meet planning rules.
  • Developers, builders and consultants – to understand what can be built and where.
  • Property owners and residents – to check zoning or overlays that apply to their land or neighbourhood.
  • State agencies – to make sure local planning aligns with State interests and regional planning strategies.

Planning schemes aren’t static — they evolve with the community.

Council must review its planning scheme at least every 10 years, and its infrastructure plan every 5 years, to make sure they stay relevant and effective.

Fraser Coast Regional Council is currently undertaking a Planning Scheme Review.

The review will include a series of amendment packages that will progressively modernise and improve the scheme.

We are currently waiting for the State Review process to be completed for Amendment Package 1 - before community consultation begins.


Council planners and technical specialists do the detailed studies and prepare the draft changes. They must follow Queensland’s planning framework and rules.

Community members, landowners, businesses and other stakeholders also have an important role. You can:

  • Share your local knowledge and what you value about our region
  • Tell us what you think should be protected or improved
  • Make a formal submission when proposed changes are released for public consultation

Councillors decide whether any changes to a planning scheme move forward. Before making a decision, Councillors must look at:

  • All technical reports and expert advice
  • All properly-made submissions from the community
  • Any requirements or feedback from the Queensland Government

All planning scheme amendments are reviewed by the State Government both before and after public consultation, and must be approved by the Minister before they take effect.