Regional forums

Location: Keppel Bay Sailing Club, Yeppoon

Community attendance: More than 140 attendees

Industries represented: State, federal and local government, First Nations organisations, agriculture, mining, manufacturing, construction, tourism, education, health, finance, community services and regional development agencies

Summary of themes

Learning from future generations

A panel of local high school student leaders joined the forum to share their perspectives on the future of the Capricorn Coast.

Students highlighted the Capricorn Coast's strong community, lifestyle and opportunities, while emphasising the need for greater involvement in decision-making, improved youth facilities and stronger pathways from education to employment. They also identified practical life skills, financial literacy, mental health support and local career opportunities as important priorities for supporting future generations and shaping the region's future.

Planning for growth

Planning for future growth was a key theme throughout the forum, with participants acknowledging the Capricorn Coast's strong growth trajectory and its ability to continue attracting residents, businesses and investment.

Discussion focused on the need to ensure infrastructure, services and community facilities keep pace with demand, while maintaining the lifestyle, character and affordability that make the region an attractive place to live. Participants highlighted the importance of timely long-term planning, community involvement and a clear regional vision to guide future investment, development and employment opportunities.

Housing, infrastructure and connectivity

Attendees identified housing availability and affordability as key challenges for the region. Participants highlighted the need for increased land supply, enabling infrastructure and innovative housing solutions to support future growth.

Discussions also focused on the importance of investing in transport networks and critical infrastructure to improve connectivity, safety and accessibility as the population grows. Water security, regional roads and infrastructure that supports agriculture and economic development were also highlighted as important priorities for the region's future.

Growing opportunity and regional prosperity

Participants highlighted the Capricorn Coast's diverse economy, strong community connections and lifestyle advantages as key strengths supporting the region's future prosperity.

Discussions focused on opportunities to support business growth and investment by addressing workforce availability, regulatory challenges and infrastructure needs. Participants also emphasised the importance of strengthening partnerships between education, training providers, industry and government to create clear career pathways, build workforce capability and retain local talent. Collaboration and innovation were identified as critical to driving long-term economic growth and regional resilience.

Looking towards 2032 and beyond

Participants identified the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games as a significant opportunity for the Capricorn Coast and wider Central Queensland region.

Discussions focused on the potential benefits of increased visitation, business growth, procurement opportunities and greater regional exposure. Participants highlighted the importance of planning ahead, working collaboratively and positioning the region to maximise the long-term economic and community benefits associated with the Games.

Location: Bundaberg Multiplex Sport and Convention Centre, Bundaberg

Community attendance: More than 70 attendees

Industries represented: State, federal and local government, First Nations organisations, agriculture, manufacturing, food and fibre production, transport and logistics, energy, construction, banking and finance, tourism, business and industry groups, employment and training providers, education and health and community services.

Summary of themes

Employment and education pathways for students

The forum started with a session featuring student leaders from the region who highlighted the need for greater access to practical, hands-on learning and stronger pathways from school to employment, particularly through work experience and real-world skills. They expressed a desire to remain in Bundaberg provided there are diverse career opportunities, accessible education pathways and the ability to build long-term futures locally.

Regional strengths and economic opportunities

Attendees identified agriculture, horticulture and manufacturing as key drivers of economic growth, with opportunities to expand into value-adding and advanced manufacturing, AgTech and innovation, biofuels and energy industries. The Port of Bundaberg and the State Development Area were recognised as critical assets to support export growth, attract investment and enable large-scale industry development.

Infrastructure, housing and growth

A key issue raised was, as a growing regional centre, Bundaberg is experiencing increased demand across housing, infrastructure and services. Housing availability was identified as a key challenge, impacting workforce attraction opportunities, tourism growth and overall liveability. Participants also highlighted the importance of coordinated planning, transport connectivity, access to services and long-term infrastructure investment to support sustainable growth.

Disaster recovery and resilience

Recent flood events reinforced the importance of resilience and preparedness across the region, with a focus on building back better to reduce future risk and improve recovery outcomes. Strong collaboration between government, industry and community was identified as essential to strengthening disaster resilience.

Workforce and skills

The challenges of workforce availability and skills development featured prominently in discussions. Opportunities were identified to strengthen pathways through expanded work experience, school-based training, stronger links between industry and education providers, and increased uptake of apprenticeships and traineeships. Attendees emphasised the importance of retaining local talent and supporting young people to transition into secure, long-term employment within the region.

Agriculture and water security

Discussions reinforced that agriculture continues to underpin Bundaberg’s economy, with water security identified as critical to future growth. Attendees highlighted the need for long-term investment in water infrastructure, alongside ongoing challenges such as input costs, biosecurity and supply chains. Opportunities to improve productivity and sustainability through innovation, technology and value-adding were also discussed.

Tourism and liveability

Bundaberg’s lifestyle and natural assets were recognised as key strengths supporting population growth and economic development. Tourism presents a significant opportunity, particularly in the lead-up to the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games. Expanding accommodation, strengthening visitor experiences and leveraging regional attractions were identified as priorities. The potential to grow agritourism was identified as a way to diversify income and strengthen the visitor economy.

Location: PCYC Bowen, Bowen

Community attendance: More than 100 attendees

Industries represented: State, federal and local government, agriculture, community and social services, tourism, education, banking, health, industry, business services, retail, sport and recreation, planning and approval, housing, digital economy

Summary of themes

Access to housing

The forum highlighted the need for housing solutions to support Bowen’s growth. Housing shortages were identified as a key challenge, particularly for workers and families. Discussions focused on the importance of enabling infrastructure to address housing pressures and support the region’s growing population.

Digital infrastructure

Improving digital connectivity was identified as a priority for the region. Attendees raised concerns about digital connectivity as a barrier to regional innovation and development and emphasised the need for investment in reliable internet and telecommunications services.

Access to services and support

Access to quality education, health, and childcare services was recognised as critical for attracting and retaining workers. Attendees discussed the importance of these services in building vibrant and sustainable communities and shared strategies to address gaps through early planning and collaboration.

Community engagement and localised solutions

The forum emphasised the importance of place-based planning and community consultation to ensure infrastructure projects align with local needs. The Bowen Foreshore Master Plan was highlighted as an example of how technical studies and community input can be combined to deliver meaningful outcomes. Sustainability and community ownership were recurring themes, with attendees stressing the need for locally driven plans to reflect the unique needs and aspirations of the community.

Workforce development and retention

Attendees discussed the challenges of workforce shortages and the importance of creating opportunities for local workers to reduce reliance on external labour. Ensuring access to social services, such as education, health, and childcare, was identified as critical for attracting and retaining workers and supporting the region’s growth.

Employment and training pathways for students

The forum began with a session featuring student leaders from Bowen State High School, who shared their aspirations for the region’s future. They highlighted the need for diverse career pathways in industries such as agriculture, technology, aerospace, and renewable energy to encourage young people to remain in Bowen after completing their education. Students also shared examples of being included in community decision-making, such as their involvement in consultations for the Bowen Jetty redevelopment, which helped foster a sense of belonging and motivation to contribute to the region’s future.

Innovation and economic growth

Bowen’s resilience and its critical role in Queensland’s supply chain through agriculture and mining were highlighted as key drivers of economic development. The Port of Abbot Point was identified as a critical asset for regional growth, with its unique advantages, such as minimal dredging requirements, seen as a drawcard for attracting diverse industries and creating local jobs. Discussions also focused on breaking down red tape and leveraging partnerships between government, industry, and the community to unlock Bowen’s economic potential.

Location: The Mayfair Hotel, Emerald

Community attendance: More than 60 attendees

Industries represented: State and local government, regional development, healthcare, education, resources, agriculture and agricultural technology, mining, engineering, transport, tourism, community services, Indigenous and social enterprises

Summary of themes

Access to services

Attendees discussed the need for improved access to essential services in regional areas. Key priorities included increasing the availability of mental health and general health specialists and addressing gaps in youth programs and rehabilitation services for issues like alcohol and drug misuse.

The establishment of multipurpose community hubs, such as the proposed Blackwater hub, was identified as a potential solution to provide a range of services in one location.

Community engagement and localised solutions

Attendees emphasised the importance of community-driven solutions to address regional challenges. The forum recognised the value of engaging young people through initiatives which empowers youth to contribute to shaping the region’s future.

Attendees stressed the need for collaboration across all levels of government and local organisations to ensure projects are tailored to the specific needs of the community and are ready to align with funding opportunities.

Innovation and economic growth

The forum celebrated the region’s economic strengths in agriculture, mining, and emerging industries such as critical minerals. Discussions focused on adding value to these industries, such as local manufacturing and processing, to create jobs and boost regional income.

Local organisations like the Central Highlands Development Corporation (CHDC) and Regional Development Australia (RDA) were acknowledged for their roles in supporting small businesses, fostering international trade, and connecting local projects with funding and expertise.

Efforts to prioritise local suppliers and contractors were also discussed as a way to strengthen the region’s economic resilience.

Education and training

Improving access to education and training was identified as a key priority. The forum highlighted the importance of partnerships between schools, industries, and training providers to create hands-on learning opportunities and career pathways for students.

Tailored training programs are being expanded to address skills shortages in key industries such as agriculture, mining, and horticulture. Attendees discussed the importance of exposing students to practical experiences, such as working on farms, to better prepare them for careers in the region.

Telecommunications and digital infrastructure

Reliable telecommunications and internet access were identified as critical for regional businesses and communities. The forum highlighted the need for collaboration with the Federal Government to improve internet and telecommunications services in regional Queensland.

Digital literacy training programs are being rolled out to help residents and businesses access online government services and improve digital inclusion.

Housing

The forum addressed the pressing need for affordable and accessible housing in regional areas. Efforts are underway to develop housing solutions for workers and explore social housing projects in areas like Emerald to reduce homelessness and support vulnerable residents. The Queensland Government is also working with local councils and partner agencies to increase housing availability and reduce reliance on the private rental market.

Location: Roma Saleyards, Roma

Community attendance: More than 70 Attendees

Industries represented: State and local government, regional development, education, resources, agriculture, livestock, rural services, mining, energy, tourism, community and social support services, sustainability, professional services and business support

Summary of themes

Access to housing

The forum highlighted the importance of addressing housing shortages to support regional growth. Affordable and accessible housing was identified as a key factor in attracting and retaining workers, with discussions focusing on collaborative approaches between local councils, state and federal governments to deliver housing solutions.

Digital infrastructure

Improving digital connectivity was identified as a priority for the region. Attendees highlighted the need for investment in reliable internet and telecommunications services to support businesses, education and community access. Digital infrastructure was seen as essential for fostering innovation and enabling regional industries to thrive.

Access to services and equitable support

Access to quality education, health and childcare services was recognised as critical for workforce retention and community wellbeing. Local strategies to address service gaps were shared, with early planning and collaboration across all levels of government identified as key to ensuring equitable support for regional communities.

Standardised definition of ‘regional’ across government

The forum raised the need for a consistent definition of ‘regional’ across government departments and agencies. A standardised approach would ensure fair and equitable access to funding, resources and policy support for regional areas, addressing inconsistencies that currently exist.

Community engagement and localised solutions

Attendees emphasised the importance of engaging local communities in planning and decision-making processes. Locally driven plans were seen as essential for ensuring development strategies reflect the unique needs and aspirations of each community. This approach was also identified to secure funding and policy support for sustainable projects.

Workforce development and retention

The forum highlighted the role of social services, such as education, health and childcare, in attracting and retaining workers. Ensuring access to these services was seen as vital for building vibrant and sustainable communities.

Attendees also discussed the importance of creating opportunities for local workers to reduce reliance on external labour.

Employment and training pathways for students

Creating clear pathways from education to employment was a key focus. Discussions centred on partnerships between schools, industries and training providers to deliver hands-on learning opportunities and career pathways for students. These initiatives aim to address skills shortages and prepare young people for local job opportunities.

Regional university study hubs

The forum recognised the value of regional university study hubs in providing access to higher education for students in rural areas. These hubs were seen as essential for supporting local students to gain qualifications without needing to relocate, helping to build a skilled workforce for the region.

Innovation and economic growth

Attendees discussed the need for regional innovation hubs to connect local industries, such as agriculture, with technology, research, and new job opportunities.

Streamlining processes and reducing red tape were identified as critical to fostering confidence in government decision-making and enabling timely project delivery.

Sustainability and community ownership were also recurring themes, with locally driven plans seen as key to promoting long-term economic growth and resilience.