News
12 May, 2025
New laws for renewables
The State Government introduced laws into Parliament last week to empower regional communities on renewable energy projects, ensuring long-lasting legacy benefits.
Under the changes, major solar farms will be impact assessable and subject to public notification, with the same rigorous approval processes as other major developments.
A new planning pathway will require major renewable programs to build social license by demonstrating how projects will deliver long-term benefits for affected communities. Proponents will be required to conduct a social impact assessment and enter into a binding community benefit agreement with the local government before lodging a development application.
Further, the changes will make the Queensland Government the Statewide assessment manager for solar farms, similar to the current arrangement for wind farms.
These changes build on reforms made earlier this year that made wind farms impact assessable and are part of delivering a fresh start for Queensland.
Deputy Premier and Minister for State Development, Infrastructure and Planning, Jarrod Bleijie, said the reform would address the social impact of these large-scale developments and put communities first.
“We are restoring a voice for regional communities and putting them back in the driver’s seat for projects in their backyard, just as we promised,” he said.
“These changes to the Planning Act mean renewable energy projects will have to engage early and authentically with communities and local governments and contribute a long-lasting legacy for their regions.”
Member for Nanango, Deb Frecklington, said this legislation delivers a voice for regional communities.
“The changes ensure developers are subject to the same community consultation, transparency, and social accountability expected of all large-scale projects,” she said.
“For too long, the rush to renewables came at the expense of local voices and local input.”
“These amendments to the Planning Act will make it mandatory for renewable projects to engage early and genuinely with local councils and residents—and to contribute a lasting legacy for the Nanango electorate.”
Local Government Association of Queensland CEO, Alison Smith, thanked the State Government for delivering on an annual conference resolution from the state’s councils.
“No one knows their communities like local councils do, and they are best placed to ensure planned developments will take into consideration community needs and help enhance community liveability,” Ms Smith said.
“Since 2018, multiple resolutions have been passed by local government calling for reforms to improve renewable energy development outcomes, in recognition of the economic, social and environmental impact these developments have on local communities.”
