Major Funding Boost to Help Guide Livingstone’s Future Growth
Published on 27 October 2025
Livingstone Shire Council has secured funding to deliver a major project that will shape how our community grows, helping ensure we have the right housing, land use, and infrastructure in place for the years ahead.
The $330,000 project, made possible through the State Government’s Scheme Supply Fund ($247,500), will provide the evidence base for a new Livingstone Housing Strategy and guide Planning Scheme updates, including embedding the recently approved Temporary Local Planning Instrument (TLPI).
Mayor Adam Belot said the funding allows Council to take a clear, evidence-led approach to planning for the region’s future.
“This investment gives us the tools we need to understand our economic, population and housing needs,” Mayor Belot said.
“It means we can make sure Livingstone has the right mix of housing, in the right locations, supported by the right infrastructure—so our Shire continues to be a great place to live, work and invest.”
Council has committed funding in its budget, with State Government support enabling the project to begin sooner and at full scale.
The evidence gathered will also help Council meet State planning requirements and respond to the State’s housing priorities.
Member for Keppel Nigel Hutton said as our communities grow, it is vital we invest in the right mix of social, economic and environmental infrastructure to ensure our communities retain their unique identity and protect their liveability.
“I am proud to partner with Livingstone Shire Council for a bright future for Livingstone and Keppel residents,” Mr Hutton said.
The project will begin later this year, with early outcomes expected in 2025, the Housing Strategy finalised in 2026, and Planning Scheme amendments progressed for State Interest Review by June 2027.
Mayor Belot said this work will be integral to the Blueprint Livingstone project, an initiative designed to drive transformational projects and position the region as a leader in innovation, investment, and sustainable growth.
“These studies will guide how we grow; helping us deliver well-planned communities, affordable housing options, and infrastructure that keeps pace with demand,” Mayor Belot said.
“Most importantly, it ensures our planning is grounded in evidence and aligned with the Council’s long-term vision for our community – ‘A prosperous region for families, business and future generations.”
Mayor Belot said while the early technical studies will be focused on data and evidence gathering, community input will play a vital role as the project progresses.
“These early stages are about building a strong evidence base to guide future decisions,” Mayor Belot said.
“While there won’t be community-wide consultation during this initial research phase, residents will have the opportunity to provide input when Council moves to the next stage — developing and consulting on the major Planning Scheme amendments.”
He said Council is committed to ensuring that community feedback informs how Livingstone grows into the future.
“When the time comes, we’ll be inviting everyone, residents, businesses and community groups, to have their say. Their feedback and lived experience will be critical in shaping planning outcomes that genuinely reflect local needs and aspirations.”
The study will be delivered in five phases:
- Economic and Population Study – analysing current and future growth trends.
- Land Supply Analysis – identifying suitable land for residential and business development.
- Housing Needs Assessment – assessing demand, affordability, diversity and supply gaps.
- Livingstone Housing Strategy – setting a clear plan to guide housing choice and affordability.
- Planning Scheme Amendments – embedding TLPI 1/2025 and delivering long-term housing solutions.