Council endorses major funding push to get ahead of growth

Published on 23 April 2026

Livingstone Shire Council has endorsed two critical funding applications under the Queensland Government’s Residential Activation Fund (RAF) Round 2, positioning the region to proactively manage rapid population growth, unlock future housing supply and manage worsening traffic congestion.

The applications seek a combined $20 million in State funding to maintain housing momentum in the Taroomball precinct and lay the groundwork for long-term growth in the northern corridor.

Mayor Adam Belot said the message is clear, growth in Livingstone is not a future possibility, it is already happening.

“People are choosing to move to Livingstone in record numbers, and that’s not something we can switch on or off,” Mayor Belot said.

“The reality is growth is happening whether we like it or not and Council has a responsibility to plan for it, manage it, and make sure our community benefits from it.”

“That means getting infrastructure in place early, releasing land in a coordinated way, and avoiding the mistakes seen in other regions where growth outpaced planning.”

Mayor Belot said the funding applications reflect a deliberate move to manage and get ahead of the growth.

“We can either be on the front foot, planning for sustainable growth, or we can fall behind and deal with congestion, housing shortages and infrastructure strain,” he said.

“These projects are about making sure we stay ahead.”

Council’s primary application seeks $15.5 million to construct the western section of Chandler Road, connecting Carige Boulevard to Tanby Road.

This critical trunk infrastructure will unlock continued development in the Taroomball residential precinct, delivering approximately 1,800 new residential lots.

Mayor Belot said without enabling infrastructure, housing supply simply cannot keep pace with demand.

“We’re already seeing demand outstrip supply, and if we don’t act, that pressure flows directly into housing affordability and availability,” he said.

“Chandler Road is the key that unlocks this next stage of housing, without it, development slows, supply tightens, and the community feels the impact.”

Beyond housing, the project will also improve network resilience and reduce congestion.

“It will take pressure off Taranganba Road, provide an additional crossing of Ross Creek, and integrate with the future East West Connector — it’s about building a smarter, more connected network,” Mayor Belot said.

Council’s second application seeks $4.5 million to deliver a Specific Infrastructure Planning Project (SIPP) for the Northern Growth Corridor.

This will progress detailed planning, design and approvals for future water and sewer infrastructure, including a scalable sewage treatment plant and concept design for a future water treatment plant.

Mayor Belot said this work is essential to responsibly opening up the next major growth area.

“The Northern Corridor represents the next chapter of growth for our region, with the capacity to support more than 20,000 residents over time,” he said.

“But growth of that scale doesn’t happen by accident, it requires careful planning, particularly when it comes to essential services like sewerage and water.”

“This is about doing the groundwork now so we’re not scrambling to catch up later.”

Mayor Belot said the project builds on Council’s agreement with Sunwater to secure long-term water supply from Rookwood Weir.

“Water security is fundamental to growth. This project strengthens our independence, reduces reliance on Rockhampton, and ensures we can support future communities,” he said.

The RAF Round 2 applications build on Council’s successful $25 million funding outcome under Round 1, which is unlocking the Hidden Valley residential precinct and delivering Stage 1 of the East West Connector.

Construction on Stage 1 is set to commence in the coming weeks.

Mayor Belot said Council is already progressing planning for Stage 2 of the East West Connector to ensure long-term transport outcomes keep pace with growth.

“We’re seeing increasing pressure on key routes like Tanby Road, with peak delays already reaching up to nine minutes,” he said.

“The East West Connector is a critical piece of infrastructure that will act as a bypass, reduce congestion, and support emerging growth areas.”

“Importantly, we’re not waiting , we’re securing the corridor and progressing design so we’re ready when the next funding opportunity arises.”

The endorsement follows strong engagement with the Queensland Government, including discussions with the Premier, Deputy Premier, Ministers and local Members of Parliament.

Mayor Belot said there is growing recognition of the region’s challenges and opportunities.

“There is a clear understanding that regions like Livingstone are on the frontline of Queensland’s growth story,” he said.

“With the support of our local members, Glenn Kelly and Nigel Hutton, we’ve had very constructive conversations about the need to invest ahead of growth, not behind it.”

“These applications represent a genuine partnership approach, aligning local planning with State priorities to deliver more housing and the infrastructure that supports it.”

With applications closing on April 24, Council officers are finalising submissions, with Chandler Road West identified as the Shire’s top priority.

Mayor Belot said acting now is critical.

“If we don’t invest ahead of growth, we risk falling into a cycle of congestion, constrained housing supply, and rising costs for our community,” he said.

“These projects are about taking responsibility for growth, making smart decisions now, and ensuring Livingstone remains a great place to live, work and invest as our population continues to grow.”