Queensland Implements Stricter Regulations for Renewable Energy Projects

In May 2025, the Queensland Government introduced significant reforms to its planning framework for renewable energy projects, emphasizing the importance of community engagement and social responsibility. The Planning (Social Impact and Community Benefit) and Other Legislation Amendment Bill 2025 mandates that developers of wind farms and large-scale solar farms conduct comprehensive social impact assessments (SIAs) and enter into binding community benefit agreements (CBAs) with local governments before submitting development applications. These measures aim to ensure that renewable energy projects deliver tangible benefits to local communities and address potential social impacts proactively.

Under the new legislation, all development applications for wind and large-scale solar farms are classified as impact assessable, requiring public notification and allowing for third-party appeals. The State Assessment and Referral Agency (SARA) will oversee the assessment of large-scale solar projects, promoting consistency across the state. Additionally, a new State Development Assessment Provisions (SDAP) State Code 26 has been introduced to guide the development of solar farms, focusing on protecting ecologically sensitive areas and high-value agricultural land.

These reforms reflect the Queensland Government's commitment to balancing the growth of renewable energy with the needs and values of local communities. By embedding social considerations into the planning process, the state aims to foster greater community support for renewable projects and ensure that the transition to clean energy is inclusive and equitable.