The Queensland Government has declared North Harbour in Burpengary East as the state’s newest Priority Development Area, fast-tracking 3,700 homes and generating nearly 2,000 jobs in a major economic and housing boost for the Moreton Bay region.
The announcement, made through Governor-in-Council, clears the way for the next stage of the $2.74 billion North Harbour masterplan, unlocking new housing, a 400-berth marina, tourism infrastructure and maritime industry development. It forms part of the Crisafulli Government’s wider housing agenda to meet growing demand and increase affordability across Queensland.
Deputy Premier and Minister for State Development Jarrod Bleijie said the declaration would play a critical role in the Government’s goal to deliver one million homes by 2044.
“This declaration brings Queensland another step closer to delivering one million homes by 2044,” Mr Bleijie said. “This precinct has sat idle for more than a decade under the former Labor Government amid a housing crisis.”
“The Crisafulli Government has taken action to move it forward, delivering certainty for council, industry and the community and helping meet the needs of a growing population.”
The Priority Development Area includes an Early Release Area with 200 homes to be fast-tracked, as well as dedicated maritime industry infrastructure, tourism and hotel precincts. Economic Development Queensland will lead planning for the area in collaboration with City of Moreton Bay, North Harbour Holdings, Trask Land and the local community.
What It Means for Builders
For builders and developers operating in South East Queensland, this announcement signals a significant opportunity. With infrastructure approvals being fast-tracked and planning oversight consolidated under Economic Development Queensland, delivery timelines are expected to shorten and market certainty to rise.
The site is expected to generate nearly 2,000 ongoing jobs and add $456 million per year to the regional economy. This economic stimulus is expected to benefit not just residential construction, but also marine and commercial building sectors.
Builders should prepare for increased project opportunities, particularly those with experience in masterplanned communities, civil infrastructure, and coastal construction. Procurement pipelines are expected to open quickly as planning progresses.
Local Government Backs the Move
City of Moreton Bay Mayor Peter Flannery welcomed the declaration, stating it would provide much-needed housing and economic uplift.
“The construction of apartments and standalone homes will provide housing diversity for the hundreds of people flocking to live in City of Moreton Bay each week,” Mayor Flannery said.
“The site’s extensive parklands featuring the largest publicly accessible riverfront park in South East Queensland will also attract multiple tourism and recreational opportunities.”
“As a Council, we are committed to working with all stakeholders including the State Government to grow economic prosperity and liveability in City of Moreton Bay. This is a prime example of what can be achieved when we all work together.”
MPs Back Urgent Action
Local MPs also voiced strong support for the fast-tracked declaration.
Pumicestone MP Ariana Doolan said the previous government had failed to act during a critical time for housing supply.
“Labor sat on their hands for years during a housing crisis,” Ms Doolan said. “The Crisafulli Government is getting on with the job of boosting housing supply for the growing City of Moreton Bay. Everyone deserves a place to call home.”
Redcliffe MP Kerri-Anne Dooley added, “This development cannot happen fast enough. With housing the number one issue in our region, we welcome this announcement so many more residents have a place to call home.”
Industry Response: A Green Light for Progress
The announcement has been strongly welcomed by developers, architects and planning consultants.
North Harbour Holdings Project Director Bryan Finney said the declaration sends a clear message that Queensland is ready to unlock high-impact projects.
“This announcement confirms that the state is serious about working with local government and the private sector to unlock high-impact projects that deliver for Queenslanders,” he said.
“We have already seen what is possible with our Business Park. Over 280,000 square metres has been sold and settled. Now, this decision gives us the certainty we need to deliver the next stage. More homes, more jobs, and a new waterfront precinct that locals can be proud of.”
“North Harbour is already home to more than 4,000 residents, and this next chapter will give them better access to the bay, more local opportunities and improved lifestyle. We are also aiming to have marina facilities ready for the 2032 Olympics to help meet demand for high-quality berthing and tourism.”
Nick Symonds, Director at MAS Architecture Studio, said the declaration unlocks more than just housing.
“This is the kind of action we need in the current housing climate,” Mr Symonds said.
“It clears delays, builds confidence, and allows us to design a true benchmark community. The North Harbour precinct will meet urgent housing needs, but it also represents the future of bayside living in South East Queensland.”
“We are designing a place that is sustainable, well-connected and built for a modern Queensland lifestyle. With the Olympics approaching, this puts Moreton Bay in a prime position to shine nationally.”
The Good Builder’s View
This is the kind of planning and delivery coordination the industry needs. When all levels of government, landowners and builders work together with urgency and alignment, Queenslanders benefit. Housing supply improves, local jobs are created, and confidence returns to the market.
For builders, now is the time to prepare. With fast-tracked approvals and major civil infrastructure about to commence, subcontractors, materials suppliers, and workforce coordinators should be engaging early.
The North Harbour PDA is more than a housing project. It is a case study in what is possible when political will and local vision align. And in a time where supply chain pressures and affordability issues dominate headlines, it is a welcome signal that momentum is building.
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