Renewables approvals changes a win for councils and communities
Published on 31 January 2025
The peak body for Queensland councils has welcomed the State Government’s changes to wind farm approvals processes to give councils and their local communities a seat at the table.
Under the new development code announced by Deputy Premier Jarrod Bleijie today and effective from Monday, February 3, wind farm proposals will be subject to mandatory impact assessments, requiring developers to consult with local councils, communities and stakeholders.
Local Government Association of Queensland President Matt Burnett said Queensland councils have always recognised the potential the renewables industry can offer but, did not want to see what has been sold as a gold rush turning instead into the wild west.
“The depth of concern was highlighted at the LGAQ Bush Councils Convention in Goondiwindi in 2023 when host Mayor Lawrence Springborg raised how little his community was set to gain from the massive renewables projects being built in the region despite the huge impacts they would live with," Mayor Burnett said.
“As our members said then, and have continued to advocate for, real social licence means host communities benefiting by more than just a handful of footy jerseys and netball bibs donated by proponents.”
LGAQ chief executive officer Alison Smith said councils had been arguing for reform to ensure the benefits of the energy transition were locked in for the communities that hosted renewables developments.
“This change is directly linked to the resolutions of our members, and is a clear example of what our sector can achieve when we work together to push for positive change for our local communities,” Ms Smith said.
“After fierce, long-running and tireless advocacy, councils have today had a major win on major renewables projects.
“It is only fair that when a community lives with the disruption, housing pressure and infrastructure stress of a major project they should be properly consulted and they must have real agreed benefits locked in up front too.
“We look forward to continuing to work with the State Government as it focuses on the next phase of renewables rules for solar projects.”
Effective 3 February 2025, wind farm applications in Queensland will be subject to Impact assessment.
This means mandatory community consultation, and third-party appeal rights.
To complement this change, ‘State code 23: Wind farm development’ has also been updated to include additional requirements – reflecting an Impact assessment.
Some include:
1. Making sure wind new farm applications result in no significant loss of high quality agricultural land;
2. Workers accommodation associated with the construction of the wind farm does not adversely impact on surrounding communities;
3. Construction impacts on local infrastructure are mitigated, or if unable to be mitigated, remediated;
4. Social impacts are identified and addressed to avoid negative impacts on host communities (community benefit);
5. Decommissioning of wind farms becomes the sole responsibility of the wind farm operator and guaranteed through bonds or financial guarantees, no longer leaving private landowners at risk.
6. Any disturbance to environmental footprints are rehabilitated.