ADOPTION OF NOOSA COUNCIL STRATEGIC LAND ACTIVATION POLICY · Report

SERVICES & ORGANISATION COMMITTEE MEETING                                        12 NOVEMBER 2024



Theme No. 5 - Excellence
This theme focuses on customer experience, financial sustainability, innovation and technology,
levels of service, governance, our employees and volunteers, funding streams and asset
management practices.

Previous Council Consideration
Nil

Finance
      •   The Policy creates opportunities to diversify Council’s revenue streams by utilising land
          assets for commercial purposes, such as leasing, partnerships or development. This could
          result in increased income over time, supporting Council’s long term financial sustainability.
      •   Where considered appropriate and in alignment to the QTC Project Decision framework,
          independent and detailed business cases will be prepared to comprehensively understand
          analysis to seek independent assessment of project value.
      •   Any financial costs arising from land activation concepts or proposals will be managed
          through Council’s established operational and capital budgetary cycle. All proposed land
          activation projects will undergo thorough assessment and be subject to Council’s standard
          approval processes, ensuring that funding allocations align with strategic priorities and
          financial sustainability. This approach guarantees that any financial commitments are
          carefully considered and incorporated within Council’s broader budgetary planning, ensuring
          responsible management of resources.

Risk & Opportunities
Risks:

Without a formal Policy to govern land activation, Council faces several key risks, including:
      •   Inefficient use of resources: Without a structured approach, there is a higher likelihood that
          land assets will be underutilised or not aligned with strategic objectives, leading to missed
          opportunities for community and economic benefits.
      •   Inconsistent decision-making: Ad hoc decision-making may result in actions that conflict with
          Council’s long-term goals or strategic plans, which can impact community trust and
          governance.
      •   Financial risks: Poorly planned land activations may lead to increased costs, legal
          complications, or investments in projects that do not deliver meaningful returns or benefits.
      •   Environmental, economic and social risks: Failure to activate land with sustainability in mind
          could lead to negative environmental impacts and missed social and economic opportunities
          to enhance community welfare, cohesion and job creation.
Opportunities:

The Policy presents significant opportunities for Council and the broader Noosa community:
      •   Economic Development: By strategically activating land for commercial and community
          projects, Council can stimulate local economic growth, generate revenue streams and
          diversify the region's economic base.
      •   Community Enhancement: The activation of underutilised land for parks, community spaces,
          or environmental projects can strengthen social cohesion, enhance local amenities, and
          improve the overall quality of life for residents.