ADOPTION OF NOOSA COUNCIL STRATEGIC LAND ACTIVATION POLICY · Report

SERVICES & ORGANISATION COMMITTEE MEETING                                        12 NOVEMBER 2024


Land Activation Framework:

The Policy introduces a structured land activation framework that embeds a robust process of due
diligence, benefit assessment and thorough review of all concepts and proposals. This framework
ensures that before any land activation moves forward, an internal working group assesses the
viability, financial sustainability and alignment with Council’s strategic objectives.

While the working group is not a decision-making body, it acts as a crucial stage gate, conducting
detailed collaborative reviews across all key organisational disciplines to confirm that concepts and
proposals are well-founded, properly scoped and sound from both a strategic and community
perspective. This process ensures that all land activations undergo comprehensive scrutiny,
enabling better-informed decision-making at higher levels of Council.

Implementation:

The adoption of the Policy will require its integration into the Council’s operational processes. This
will involve regular scanning for opportunities to identify land that can be activated to meet strategic
goals, conducting thorough due diligence to assess potential land opportunities and maintaining a
centralised register of land assets to track and manage projects. The Policy will be reviewed every
four years to ensure it remains aligned with Council’s evolving strategic objectives and community
needs.

Expected Outcomes:

By implementing the Policy, Council is expected to increase the value generated from its land assets
through well-planned development, infrastructure improvements and strategic partnerships. The
Policy will help strengthen Council’s financial sustainability by diversifying revenue streams through
land use while also enhancing community amenities and public spaces by activating underutilised
land to better meet the needs of residents and visitors. Additionally, it will ensure that all land use
decisions are environmentally sound, supporting long-term sustainability goals and promoting the
protection of natural resources.

GOVERNANCE

Legislative/Legal Implications

While the Policy itself does not grant legal or legislative authority for land transactions or
developments, it operates within the framework of existing statutory requirements and regulations.
Any activation of land will still be subject to compliance with local, state, and federal laws, including
zoning regulations, environmental legislation and planning approvals.

Additionally, the Policy ensures that due diligence is conducted for each land activation project,
which includes a thorough legal review to mitigate risks and ensure all actions are legally sound.
This approach helps safeguard Council from legal challenges and ensures that land activations are
carried out in accordance with the law and best practices.

Link to Corporate Plan

Theme No. 2 - Liveability
This theme encompasses housing, facilities and services, transport, health and wellbeing to enable
an inclusive, connected and vibrant community.

Theme No. 3 - Prosperity
Focus areas include economic development, local business, innovation, arts and culture, waste and
a circular economy.