ADOPTION OF NOOSA COUNCIL STRATEGIC LAND ACTIVATION POLICY · Report

SERVICES & ORGANISATION COMMITTEE MEETING                                      12 NOVEMBER 2024


With limited public resources and increasing expectations for local government to strengthen
communities, it is crucial to maximise the value and utility of land assets. This Policy guides an
informed and proactive approach where land assets are viewed as strategic opportunities to drive
positive outcomes for both the community and Council.

EXPLANATION OF ITEM

The adoption of the Policy by Council will embed a structured process within the organisation for
managing and activating Council-owned land assets. The Policy itself does not grant decision-
making powers, instead it serves as a best-practice framework to direct Council officers and leaders
in aligning land use with the broader strategic objectives of Council.

The Policy is designed to facilitate proactive land activation by setting out clear procedures for
identifying, assessing, and leveraging land assets. By adopting this Policy, Council will empower the
organisation to maximise the value of land assets and contribute to long-term strategic outcomes
without superseding existing decision-making processes.

The Policy is designed to guide Noosa Council in managing and optimising its land portfolio in a way
that supports the region’s strategic priorities. It provides a framework for decision-making regarding
the activation, use, acquisition, or divestment of Council-owned land, ensuring alignment with long-
term community, economic, and environmental goals. The Policy aims to transform underutilised
land assets into valuable resources that benefit the entire community while maintaining a sustainable
and responsible approach to land use.

POLICY OVERVIEW

Purpose:

The purpose of the Policy is to establish a clear, transparent and operational framework for land
activation. Particularly, the Policy will guide Council in:
   •   Maximising the value and utility of land assets.
   •   Ensuring land assets contribute to Council’s strategic objectives.
   •   Providing a structured process for assessing land opportunities, risks and strategic
       alignment.
Application:

The Policy will apply to all land assets over which Council has influence, including those owned,
leased, or managed under trusteeship. The primary activities covered under the Policy include:
   •   Land Activation Projects: Initiatives aimed at maximising land potential to meet community
       and strategic objectives.
   •   Commercial Activities: Commercial enterprises proposed on Noosa Council land, provided
       they align with Council’s strategic goals and deliver benefit to the community.
   •   Community and Environmental Projects: Projects that aim to enhance community welfare,
       promote social cohesion and uphold environmental values, including a focus on conservation
       or address specific community needs in line with Council’s objectives in line with Council’s
       objectives.
   •   Strategic Infrastructure Development: The development of key infrastructure projects which
       are essential to supporting regional growth and service levels.
Out of scope activities include non-commercial recreational use, events and festivals and civil
infrastructure renewal.