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.