Brisbane City Council Archives

Toowong Pub Sites Could Rise to 12 Storeys in Updated Brisbane Hotel Plan

Suitable pub sites in Toowong could accommodate hotel developments of up to 12 storeys under proposed planning changes aimed at increasing visitor accommodation before the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

For eligible pub projects in nominated Major Centre locations, including Toowong, the proposal would provide for an increase from 10 to 12 storeys. The Regatta Hotel on Coronation Drive is among the suburb’s prominent pub sites, although Council announcement did not identify a 12-storey development proposal for the venue. Its owner has separately identified longer-term development potential on vacant land behind the hotel, including a possible four-to-five-level commercial or short-stay project.

Suburban pub sites brought into hotel supply push

Brisbane City Council’s Suburban Pub Stays Strategy is intended to encourage new accommodation and function facilities on large or underused pub sites. Council says planning changes are being considered to make hotel projects on suitable suburban properties easier to deliver.

Around 70 Brisbane pubs occupy sites of at least 2,000 square metres, but only 15 currently provide accommodation, according to council. Industry estimates supplied through the strategy indicate that redevelopment of 20 suburban pub sites could add more than 1,600 rooms to Brisbane’s hotel supply. Council says more than 260 licensed hotels operate across the city.

The latest proposal would use a Temporary Local Planning Instrument to introduce changes including additional height for eligible pub accommodation projects, simpler development applications and revised car-parking requirements. Eligible short-term accommodation developments could also defer infrastructure charges rather than paying them upfront, with the proposed charge deferral extending to hotels elsewhere in Brisbane.

Height increases would extend beyond major centres

The 12-storey provision forms one part of a wider package covering several planning zones. The examples released with the proposal provide for increased heights for eligible pub accommodation developments in Major Centre, Neighbourhood Centre, Mixed Use and some residential zones.

Zone	Current base height cited in proposal	Proposed height for eligible projects
Major Centre	10 storeys	12 storeys
Neighbourhood Centre	3 storeys	4 storeys, or 5 storeys on sites larger than 3,000 sq m
Mixed Use	5 storeys	7 storeys
Low-density residential	2 storeys	4 storeys
Low- to medium-density residential	3–4 storeys	4–6 storeys

The figures are examples attached to the pub-stays proposal rather than universal height limits for every property within those zones. Existing neighbourhood plans, overlays and site-specific planning controls can also affect the development capacity of individual properties.

Room shortage extends across South East Queensland

The strategy follows a prolonged slowdown in hotel development. Council says hotel construction in Brisbane fell by about 90 per cent between 2019 and 2024, while industry estimates indicate hotel-room construction costs rose about 40 per cent over the same period.

A 2026 Property Council and CBRE outlook projects South East Queensland could face a hotel-room shortfall of about 5,200 rooms by the 2032 Games even if the full identified development pipeline is delivered. The gap rises to about 7,400 rooms after accounting for the likelihood that some proposed projects will not proceed.

The same report estimates about 64,800 rooms of Games-period demand will be concentrated across Brisbane, the Gold Coast and Sunshine Coast. Council says South East Queensland currently has about 46,000 hotel rooms.

Several suburban pubs already combine hospitality venues with accommodation. Council argues smaller suburban developments can add rooms more quickly than large CBD hotel projects while using land already occupied by commercial hospitality businesses. The strategy also seeks to place more accommodation near family, friends, local centres and suburban destinations rather than concentrating new rooms in the inner city.

Twelve storeys would not amount to automatic approval

A higher planning height would not give a pub owner automatic approval to construct a 12-storey hotel. Individual proposals would remain subject to the planning and assessment requirements applying to their sites.

Council is proposing to introduce the changes through a Temporary Local Planning Instrument, which can temporarily alter the operation of Brisbane City Plan for up to two years. The latest package must still progress through the approval process, including Queensland Government consideration, before the proposed provisions can take effect.

Published 9-Sept-2026

How New Housing Rules Could Reshape Parts of West Brisbane

Photo Credit: BCC

Brisbane’s inner-west suburbs are poised to take a larger share of the city’s housing growth, with new planning rules opening more sites near rail stations, shopping centres and major services to low-rise residential development.

St Lucia, Indooroopilly, Taringa, Toowong and Highgate Hill are among the suburbs where eligible low-medium density land could accommodate smaller lots, townhouses and additional apartments. The changes are intended to broaden housing choice in established neighbourhoods where transport, education, retail and community services are already in place.

Smaller homes broaden options in established suburbs

The revised planning framework allows lots as small as 120 square metres in qualifying parts of the low-medium density zone where design and built-form requirements are met.

Development of up to three storeys is provided for more broadly, while multiple dwellings of up to four storeys may be permitted at designated locations close to frequent public transport or centres.

Council says Brisbane’s housing stock has not kept pace with changing household sizes. More than half of the city’s households are singles or couples, while fewer than one-third of homes have one or two bedrooms, creating demand for smaller housing suited to different stages of life.

Western suburbs already contain many smaller households. The 2021 Census recorded an average household size of 2.2 people in Taringa, while Highgate Hill averaged 2.3 and Indooroopilly 2.5.

Existing transport gives density a head start

Access to established public transport is a central part of the planning approach, particularly around locations with frequent services.

Indooroopilly is already identified as a major western Brisbane centre combining shops, employment and community services with high-frequency public transport, including its railway station and bus interchange.

Toowong also contains an established centre and railway station, while St Lucia and Taringa sit close to major education, employment and transport destinations. Highgate Hill’s inner-city location places parts of the suburb close to established bus routes and the broader South Brisbane and West End service network.

Council’s housing strategy says concentrating more homes near transport and shops can make greater use of existing infrastructure and services while keeping residents closer to everyday destinations.

Low-rise development remains the focus

Eligible low-medium density land is not being converted into a high-rise zone. The changes instead expand opportunities for housing between detached homes and large apartment towers, including row houses, townhouses, dual occupancies and low-rise apartments.

Small-lot controls include a 55 per cent site-cover limit for lots under 180 square metres and a 70 per cent maximum impervious area, with provisions intended to retain space for landscaping, stormwater infiltration, street trees and on-street parking.

More Homes, Sooner
Low-Medium Density Residential Design

More Homes, Sooner Explanatory Guide

Additional housing capacity could give residents more options to remain in established western and inner-city neighbourhoods as their housing needs change. The number and timing of new homes will still depend on individual sites, landowners, market conditions and applicable development approvals.

Published 2-Sept-2026

Four-Tower Toowong Central Proposal Replaces Original High-Rise Design

One of Toowong’s largest redevelopment projects has taken another step forward, with fresh plans promising lower buildings, new public spaces and improved connections through the suburb’s town centre. The updated Toowong Central proposal retains its mixed-use vision for the site bounded by Sherwood Road, High Street and Jephson Street. However, it includes several key changes from the plans first lodged last year.

Its tallest tower has been reduced from 55 storeys to 39 storeys. The previous three-tower concept has also changed to four towers, while the overall project remains centred on new housing, retail, public spaces and transport connections.

The revised proposal reflected Council and community feedback while seeking to balance new housing with improved public spaces, transport links and local services. The revision broadens the range of homes planned for the precinct.

Alongside strata-titled apartments, the development now includes build-to-rent housing and student accommodation.

The development application (DA A006836692) remains under Toowong Central Investment Holding Pty Ltd and covers the same collection of properties included in the original development proposal.

Toowong Central development has been revised — *Photo Credit: CrPennyWolff/Facebook*

More Public Space and Better Connections Across the Site

More than 5,300 square metres of publicly accessible open space is now proposed, representing almost 30 per cent of the site. A new lifestyle and retail precinct is planned for the corner of Sherwood Road and High Street, while upgraded pedestrian links would better connect the development with Toowong railway station and nearby bus services.

The proposal also includes widening High Street and planting additional trees. The developer has proposed dedicating land to Brisbane City Council for a future bus slip lane to improve traffic flow, while parking has been revised to better align with Council’s planning requirements.

Heritage Building Stays at the Centre of the Precinct

The former Carver & Co building on High Street remains part of the redevelopment and is planned to become a focal point of the precinct.

The Carver & Co building — *Photo Credit: Google Maps screengrab*

A supporting heritage report outlines methods for carefully dismantling and reconstructing parts of the building where needed to preserve its significant elements during construction.

The revised application also includes a Biodiversity Management Plan that supports increased tree planting, locally suitable vegetation and green infrastructure designed to improve habitat and help reduce urban heat across the site.

Toowong Central biodiversity management plan — *Photo Credit: DA A006836692*

Greens Say Key Planning Concerns Remain

While the revised proposal lowers building heights and changes the site’s layout still falls short on several issues raised during consultation on the original application, according to Mr Michael Berkman, Greens MP for Maiwar.

In a media statement, Mr Berkman said the project remained well above the 25-storey height limit set under the Toowong–Auchenflower Neighbourhood Plan and argued the revised plans still did not include dedicated affordable housing. He also questioned the proposal’s level of deep planting, saying it remained below Council’s 10 per cent acceptable outcome, and raised concerns about the size of the proposed public open space compared with the neighbourhood plan’s Urban Common requirement.

Mr Berkman also said the revised plans reduced bicycle parking and increased the amount of student and short-term accommodation proposed for the site. He urged Brisbane City Council to require further changes before making a decision on the application.

Amended Proposal Remains Under Council Assessment

The redevelopment site, opposite Toowong Village and Toowong railway station, has remained vacant since the former standalone Woolworths supermarket closed in 2017.

The original proposal attracted community submissions and debate over its building heights and overall scale. The revised plans lower tower heights, increase publicly accessible open space and change the site’s layout while retaining its role as a major mixed-use destination.

Brisbane City Council is continuing to assess the amended application. Cr Penny Wolff said Verso had advised construction could begin next year if the project receives approval.

Published 8-July-2026

Toowong Tower Proposal Faces Major Redesign After Planning Review

A heavily scrutinised plan to reshape the centre of Toowong with three high-rise towers is facing major changes after planners raised concerns about building height, traffic, public space and infrastructure impacts linked to the proposed redevelopment.

A “Further Advice” letter issued on 8 May 2026 for DA A006836692 identified 48 separate issues requiring amended plans, revised reports, or further information before the application at 47 High St can continue through assessment.

The proposal, lodged by Toowong Central Investment Holding Pty Ltd through Urbis, includes three towers reaching 49, 55 and 58 storeys on the former Woolworths site near Sherwood Road, High Street and Jephson Street.

The concerns span building height, traffic modelling, bicycle access, waste collection, deep planting, flooding, heritage impacts, construction management and noise.

Tower heights clash with Toowong neighbourhood plan

Building height emerged as one of the central issues in the review.

Planning officers stated the proposed towers depart from the heights anticipated for the site under the Brisbane City Plan 2014 and said Toowong was not intended to take on the same density or built form as Brisbane’s inner-city precincts.

The letter also raised concerns about overshadowing and the impact the towers could have on surrounding development sites.

A revised proposal with building heights more aligned with approved and existing development in the local area was requested.

The six-storey podium facing Sherwood Road also drew criticism for appearing imposing at street level and not contributing positively to the streetscape character expected under the Toowong–Auchenflower neighbourhood plan.

Residents divided over scale of development

Public submissions show many residents support redevelopment of the former Woolworths site in principle, but remain divided over the scale and design of the current proposal.

One submission argued the towers were too tall for the area and would damage the visual character of central Toowong while worsening congestion in an already busy traffic corridor.

Another resident, who said they had lived in Toowong for 30 years, argued the development focused too heavily on increasing residential numbers without delivering enough community infrastructure, sustainable transport planning or environmental improvements.

Concerns were also raised about pressure on childcare centres, schools and public transport services, along with limited deep planting and reliance on private vehicles despite the area’s strong transport links.

Other submissions pointed to the lack of affordable housing within the proposal, arguing planning concessions on height should only be granted if the development delivered stronger public benefits such as lower-cost housing, larger green spaces and improved active transport facilities.

Some residents also argued the towers did not reflect Toowong’s established character or the “village” feel associated with the existing centre.

Supporters say project could help housing supply

Not all submissions opposed the proposal.

One supporting submission argued the project would add more than 1,000 apartments in a well-connected suburb close to major transport links, universities and the CBD.

The same submission said the mix of housing, retirement living and short-term accommodation could help respond to housing demand ahead of the 2032 Olympic Games while supporting Brisbane’s ageing population.

The proposal also includes retail, commercial and healthcare uses alongside public open space elements.

Traffic and heritage concerns remain unresolved

Transport impacts formed a major part of the review.

Planning officers challenged assumptions used in the project’s traffic modelling and questioned the amount of non-residential car parking proposed, describing it as an oversupply compared with planning scheme expectations. Further modelling was requested for nearby intersections including Sherwood Road, High Street, Jephson Street and Benson Street.

Concerns were also raised about bicycle safety, loading areas and refuse vehicle access. The treatment of the heritage-listed Carver and Co building also remains unresolved.

The review criticised plans to remove parts of the upper floor and internal stairs and questioned excavation works proposed beneath the building. Planners stated the development should better respect and restore the heritage place while protecting its visibility within the High Street streetscape.

The Further Advice letter does not amount to a refusal of the project. The applicant must now respond with revised plans, updated technical reports and additional supporting material before the assessment process can continue.

Published 11-May-2026

Toowong Bikeway Link Moves Ahead After Strong Community Support

More than 1,100 people on bikes and e-scooters travel the Sylvan Road Bikeway corridor each weekday in Brisbane’s inner west, despite the route running directly alongside traffic with no physical separation. Plans are now advancing for a protected bikeway through Toowong.

Early works are expected to start from mid-2026, with a target completion in 2028, after community consultation held in June 2025. The project is backed by a Queensland cycling grant supporting the design phase and a $5 million federal contribution announced on 27 February 2025, towards an estimated $12 million total cost.

A Key Link Between Two Major Bikeways

Sylvan Road is a key connection between two major off-road routes: the Bicentennial Bikeway near the river and the Western Freeway Bikeway. Council describes the project as part of local network improvements around Sylvan Road and nearby intersections, aimed at making trips smoother and safer for more people moving through Toowong.

The route has also been highlighted in cycling safety reporting, including BikeSpot material that collects and maps locations riders consider unsafe.

Strong Community Support

Council’s community engagement update reports strong support for protected infrastructure on Sylvan Road. It says 93 per cent of respondents believed a separated bikeway would have a positive or very positive effect on their travel, while 94 per cent said they would feel very safe or somewhat safe using Sylvan Road if a separated bikeway was installed.

The consultation summary also reports concerns about avoiding crashes, unsafe turning movements and limited crossing options. It notes people asked for safer crossings, slower traffic speeds, wider footpaths, better lighting and more greenery to improve comfort for everyone using the street.

Alongside separated bike lanes, Council’s update also points to work around major junctions connected to Sylvan Road, including Croydon Street, Jephson Street and Milton Road. Council says it is working toward concept designs in early 2026, with detailed design expected later in the year, and construction timing dependent on how the design develops.

Council’s “Your Say” page for the project describes Sylvan Road as a popular cycling route linking the two bikeways and says there is an opportunity to improve safety for walking, riding and scooting, including at key intersections.

Published 23-Jan-2026

Toowong Streets Come Alive with Vibrant Artworks on Signal Boxes

Photo Credit: Google Maps

The streets of Toowong have been transformed into an open-air gallery, with local residents painting vibrant artworks on traffic signal boxes throughout the suburb. These eye-catching installations celebrate everything from local stories to community connections, turning everyday street furniture into conversation starters.

Windows of Toowong

At the corner of Coronation Drive and Booth Street, artists Matisse Raphael and Aya Stronach have transformed an Energex padmount transformer into an imaginary apartment building. Painted in June 2022, the artwork features multiple window panels, each framing diverse characters who peer out or sometimes in, representing Toowong’s cosmopolitan community. A flowering jacaranda filled with local wildlife completes the scene, capturing the vibrancy of this inner-Brisbane suburb.

The Toowong Cat and Fiddle

Created by eight-year-old Alice White in December 2018, this design at the intersection of Milton Road, Croydon Street and Morley Street takes inspiration from the nearby Cat and Fiddle shopping centre. The artwork features a possum dressed in Toowong School uniform alongside colourful Queenslander houses and a sunset characteristic of local skies. The piece earned a nomination for Best 12 and Under.

Paper Wings

Located at the Sylvan Road pedestrian crossing near Kate Street, Maleea Holbert’s August 2025 design depicts origami cranes drifting through the sky. Positioned directly in front of Toowong State School, the artwork aims to capture children’s imagination whilst providing a calming presence for parents and passers-by. Holbert drew inspiration from memories of making paper cranes in Japanese class.

There’s Always a Silver Lining

At the same Sylvan Road pedestrian crossing location (a previous artwork on this box), D.K. Perkins and Peta Thomson created this May 2021 piece asking the age-old question: is the glass half empty or half full? The design encourages viewers to look for silver linings and sparked from the family’s experiences during 2020. The artwork won Best 18 and Under in 2021.

Dancing in the Dark Forest

Mira Westaway’s December 2016 artwork at the intersection of Moggill Road, Jephson Street and High Street combines her passions for ballet and fashion design with a Halloween twist. The piece earned nominations across multiple categories, including Overall Winner and both youth age groups.

The Cloisters

Leesl Ross brings the University of Queensland to Toowong’s streets with this October 2016 depiction of the university’s iconic sandstone walkway and arcade. Located at Brisbane Street and Glen Road, the artwork earned a nomination for Overall Winner.

Hope, Resilience, Recovery

At Sherwood Road and Holland Street, Lisa Kelly’s April 2019 artwork promotes the message of Eating Disorders Queensland, a community-based not-for-profit organisation. The piece serves as a sister artwork to Kelly’s other box on the same street, designed to bring the community together and remind viewers that beauty comes in all forms. It received a nomination for the Energex Box Award.

No Wrong Way to Have a Body

Lisa Kelly’s September 2018 design at Sherwood Road and Jephson Street celebrates bodies of all shapes and sizes through depictions of various female forms throughout history. Created in recognition of Body Image and Eating Disorders Awareness Week, the artwork was produced in collaboration with The Eating Issues Centre and earned nominations for Overall Winner and Best Organisation.

Metropolitan Manifesto 2.0

Kate Halling’s January 2020 design at Benson Street and High Street explores how people make sense of their surroundings through sensory experiences. Using varying colours, shapes and forms, the artwork responds to its location and aims to provoke a positive sensory experience for viewers.

Peck-nic Time

Gabrielle Cook, a disabled artist, created this July 2025 artwork at Jephson Street and Lissner Street featuring iconic Australian birds enjoying a picnic of recognisable Aussie snacks. Cook, working with collaborators Emma Blakey, Kyron Mayhew and Naomi Moore from the University of Queensland’s School of Social Sciences, designed the piece to invite playfulness and connection through accessible public art.

Meanderin’ Meanjin

Sarah Sparks and Tom Hilton’s June 2025 design at 3 Valentine Street and Milton Road celebrates Brisbane from the river to the purple jacarandas and turquoise of South Bank lagoon. The artwork features six iconic bridges symbolising the merging of modern and historic Brisbane, with dashes representing walking tracks and dots representing the city’s tapestry of cultures. The title pays homage to the traditional name for Brisbane.

Purple Rain: The Essence of Spring in Brisbane

Emma Watt’s October 2024 artwork at the Coronation Drive pedestrian crossing and Booth Street captures jacaranda trees flowering against the heritage Regatta Hotel. The piece aims to evoke nostalgia and appreciation for Brisbane’s character, highlighting the short-lived beauty of spring before summer arrives and the intertwining of history and nature.

The Cats of Creativity

At Land Street and Patrick Street, Bronte McDonald’s December 2022 design draws from Ray Bradbury’s quote comparing cats to creative ideas. McDonald, working with assistants Ashleigh Barker and Bibi Bonfield, believes creating is as essential to human wellbeing as exercise and good nutrition, with CAT also serving as an acronym for Creative Art Therapy.

Books and Birds

Santo Cavallaro’s June 2022 artwork at Land Street and Sylvan Road celebrates the special connection between nature and discovery. The design reflects on how spending time in nature can provide endless opportunities for learning, growth and peace, whether hiking through mountains or simply walking in a park.

About Artforce Brisbane

These artworks are part of Artforce Brisbane, an annual community art programme run by Brisbane City Council since 1999. The initiative invites Brisbane residents of all ages, abilities and backgrounds to paint original artworks on traffic signal boxes throughout the city’s suburbs. More than 5,000 volunteers have painted over 1,200 boxes across Brisbane, celebrating local characters, cultures, histories and landmarks while reducing graffiti and vandalism. The programme is managed by Artfully, a Brisbane-based arts consultancy specialising in public art and placemaking. Each year, approximately 80 painting opportunities become available as the council upgrades intersections and replaces old cabinets.

Residents interested in participating can register at the Artforce Brisbane website or email info@artforcebrisbane.com.au for more information.

Published 26-December-2025

Legacy Way Tunnel Reaches $1 Million Milestone for Veterans’ Families

Photo Credit: Transurban/Facebook

The Legacy Way Tunnel, linking Toowong and Kelvin Grove, has generated more than $1 million in donations for Legacy Brisbane through toll contributions since opening ten years ago.

A Tunnel With a Community Role

The Legacy Way Tunnel connects the Western Freeway at Toowong with the Inner City Bypass at Kelvin Grove. Beyond reducing congestion and saving drivers time, the tunnel has delivered ongoing financial support for veterans’ families.

Each trip contributes one cent to Legacy Brisbane, and over millions of journeys the initiative has reached a seven-figure total.

Impact on Veteran Families

Legacy Brisbane supports nearly 4,000 family members across Queensland, including widows, partners, and children of veterans.

*Photo Credit: Legacy Australia/Facebook*

The funds provide education opportunities, care programs, and personal development support. They also help ease cost-of-living pressures, ensuring families receive practical assistance during difficult times.

Voices From the Community

Transurban representatives said the milestone shows how everyday travel helps achieve lasting community outcomes. Legacy Brisbane leaders explained that the partnership has strengthened their ability to reach more families and expand services.

The funding, they said, ensures long-term social and financial support continues for those impacted by a loved one’s service.

Community Impact

With more than 76 million vehicles having travelled through since opening, the Legacy Way Tunnel has become both a vital transport link and a steady source of funding for veterans’ families.

The $1 million milestone demonstrates how routine daily travel can deliver lasting benefits for the community, ensuring Legacy Brisbane can continue its support well into the future.

Published 16-September-2025

Toowong Bowls Club Site to be Demolished, Community Input Sought for Redevelopment

Photo Credit: CrPennyWolff/ Facebook

Plans have been announced to demolish the flood-ravaged Toowong Bowls Club site, with community input being sought on potential redevelopment options. The site has remained unused since the devastating floods of 2022. Local authorities are keen to revitalise the area while ensuring resilience against future flooding events.

Locals have responded enthusiastically to the call for input, suggesting various innovative and practical ideas. Some residents have proposed planting iconic Moreton Bay figs to enhance the greenery and provide shade for future generations. Others have suggested a skate facility for local youth, community playgrounds, tennis courts, or a BMX track.

A recurring theme in the community feedback is the desire for a versatile space to accommodate various events and activities. One resident envisions a large, covered structure on the existing bowling fields, similar to the popular Bardon Bowls Club, which could host markets, charity events, music performances, and informal gatherings.

*Photo Credit:* *CrPennyWolff/ Facebook*

The dilapidated building and concrete slabs are scheduled to be demolished in August. The council is committed to transforming the site into a parkland that enhances the Brisbane lifestyle. Residents are urged to submit their suggestions to the committee for consideration.

Ms Penny Wolff acknowledged the community’s interest in the site’s future and encouraged residents to share their ideas for post-demolition use. She highlighted the importance of considering flood resilience in any proposed plans, suggesting options such as fitness facilities, pickleball courts, lifestyle amenities, or green spaces.

This initiative reflects the council’s dedication to community engagement and sustainable urban development. The Toowong Bowls Club site redevelopment presents a unique opportunity to create a vibrant and resilient community space that caters to residents’ diverse needs and interests.

Published Date 05-August-2024

Budget Cuts Force Pause on Toowong to West End Green Bridge and Victoria Bridge Project

Photo Credit: BCC

BCC will undergo a series of cost-cutting measures to address a forecast budget blowout of approximately $400 million, impacting the already delayed Toowong to West End Green Bridge, which will be paused indefinitely.

Also affected by the cut is the shading of Victoria Bridge, part of the Brisbane Metro project, a stage that’s estimated at $5 million. This significant spending reduction, equating to a 10 per cent reduction in Council expenditure, comes just three months after the 2023-2024 budget was unveiled in June this year.

Rising Costs Prompt Immediate Spending Cuts

The decision to reduce the budget by $400 million aims to tackle soaring construction costs, labour, materials, goods, and services, which have put pressure on Council’s financial resources. This move seeks to keep future rate increases in check and maintain affordability for residents as the city heads into an election year.

Brisbane City Council will implement a range of austerity measures to achieve these savings. For instance, the public art component of the Brisbane Metro project will be delayed. Advertising, travel, consultants, and councillor ward budgets will also be reduced.

However, Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner assured that there would be no forced layoffs among permanent Council employees, although contractors may face uncertainty.

Citywide Impact and Concerns

The budget cut will have far-reaching consequences, potentially jeopardising various projects or increasing their costs. The specifics of how these cuts will affect services and projects, including roads and footpaths, have not been disclosed, leading to concerns among opposition parties and residents.

Opposition leader Jared Cassidy criticised the lack of transparency in revealing which projects would be impacted, emphasizing that residents should not have to wait for months to discover how their local services might be affected.

Mr Schrinner defended the budget cut as a necessary corrective action to avoid future rate rises, highlighting the increasing costs faced by the council. He cited rising expenses in areas such as fuel, electricity, bitumen, and construction as key reasons behind the decision. Mr Schrinner maintained that essential services like waste collection, buses, and ferries would remain unaffected.

“Households right across the city are tightening their belts and it’s only fair governments do too,” Mr Schrinner said.

“Today I’m announcing a Council-wide 10% savings drive amid the global inflation and cost-of-living crisis.

“What we’re doing will put downward pressure on future rates compared to the uncontrolled spending we see at other levels of government that will only lead to pain for households.

“This is the kind of responsible decision-making Brisbane residents expect so we can maintain the lowest rates in South East Queensland.”

Future Implications and Challenges

The revised budget is expected to be released by the end of November, just a few months before Brisbane ratepayers go to the polls in March 2024.

Global inflation has played a substantial role in driving up construction costs, causing budget revisions and project delays. Fiona Cunningham, chair for finance in Brisbane civic cabinet, explained that continuing to spend without addressing these rising costs would result in future rate hikes for residents, an outcome the Council is determined to avoid.

“While some proposed projects may be paused, the majority will be delivered on time however council officers will be working hard over coming months to descope and remove unnecessary costs,” Ms Cunningham said.

Published 18-Oct-2023

Learn How to Build a No-Dig Garden at Toowong’s Vera Street Community Garden

Join the Vera Street Community Garden as they celebrate International Compost Awareness Week with a free no-dig garden workshop.

Vera Street Community Garden has been actively conducting workshops that help Brisbane City Council in their efforts to cultivate greener communities. Consisting of locals and non-local residents, the association is dedicated to helping people establish and maintain organic vegetable garden beds for shared consumption and rehabilitating the Toowong Creek.

Read: Free Compost and Worm Farm Workshop in Toowong

Tim Davies from All You Can Eat Gardens will be facilitating a hands-on workshop on making a no-dig garden out of recycled timber and compost from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. on Sunday, 13 May 2018.

Photo credit: www.allyoucaneatgardens.com.au

No-dig gardens are an excellent way to transform wasted spaces into productive food gardens. This type of garden can be built on lawns, weeds, hardpan clay, and even on concrete. This workshop will show you how you can do it on your own.

Attendees will also learn the necessary skills to make their own raised bed at home.

Tim Davies has been engaged with Permaculture and organic farming through woofing, teaching, and designing since 2008. His studies as an Environmental Engineer helped him develop his understanding of natural systems and design.

For those who want to attend the free event, call the Council on 3403 8888 to reserve your slot. Don’t forget to wear a hat, a long sleeve shirt, and closed in shoes during the event.