Sta Mcu Proposal 1 Gympie Kin Kin Rd · MCU25/0075

1. Introduction

This planning submission supports a Development Application for a Material Change of Use
(MCU) to allow Short-Term Accommodation (STA) on a rural property in Kin Kin, within the
Noosa Shire Council area. The proposal aligns with the Noosa Plan 2020 Rural Zone Code and
seeks an exemption from the standard "4 bookings or 60 days" STA threshold ("4/60 rule"),
which is not appropriate for rural areas such as Kin Kin.

It is a modest and well-considered proposal that aligns with Council’s broader goals of
supporting sustainable tourism and protecting the rural character of the hinterland.

The property features ample natural vegetation, rural amenity, and is well-separated from
neighbouring dwellings. No physical changes to the site are proposed as part of this application.

The proposed short-term accommodation is a natural fit for Kin Kin's growing appeal as a
destination for authentic nature-based experiences, eco-tourism, agritourism and creative and
wellness retreats, away from the commercialised coastal strips

The proposed short-term accommodation aims to provide a small-scale, low-impact offering that
complements the natural environment, while helping to meet a growing and currently severely
under served demand for short-term stays in the Kin Kin area. This proposal is well-aligned with
the Rural Zone Code’s intent to encourage land uses that support rural tourism and diversify the
rural economy while maintaining the site's rural amenity and ecological values.




2. Site and Context

The subject site is a rural landholding located at 1 Gympie Kin Kin Rd Kin Kin, legally described
as Lot 1 / SP/RP RP149485. The property features a low-density rural character with significant
vegetative buffers, limited built form, and has direct access to three separate trails of the Noosa
Trail Network and the wider Biosphere Reserve.

Kin Kin is a small picturesque hinterland village known for its rich agricultural history, artisanal
community, and access to natural attractions. The town is increasingly popular with weekend
visitors, hikers, and cyclists.

As one of the few remaining true country towns in the region, Kin Kin offers a unique
combination of scenic rural landscapes, artisanal produce, and a strong sense of local identity
that appeals to weekend travellers, wellness seekers, and those in search of a slower, more
grounded pace of life. It will allow weekend holidaymakers to experience the natural beauty of
the Noosa Trail Network, local hiking routes, while staying in a setting that is quiet, private, and
in harmony with the rural environment.

With limited local services and employment opportunities, tourism plays an increasingly
important role in Kin Kin's economic and social sustainability. Responsible short-term visitor
accommodation provides an opportunity to supplement rural land use without compromising its
character or agricultural function. It enables property owners to diversify their income streams
while encouraging visitors to support small local businesses, including the Kin Kin Depot, Kin
Kin Hotel, Kin Kin Bathhouse, community-run markets and numerous farm-gate enterprises.