Renewable energy projects in Queensland are being shaped by stronger landholder and community engagement, with the release of a new toolkit for developers and investors, proposed changes to planning laws, and consultation on new industry guidelines, the Queensland Renewable Energy Council (QREC) said today.
QREC Chief Executive Officer Katie-Anne Mulder said the introduction of the Planning (Social Impact and Community Benefit) and Other Legislation Amendment Bill 2025, as well as the launch of the Queensland Renewable Energy Developer & Investor Toolkit, marked a significant step in formalising social engagement expectations for the renewable energy sector.
“Our industry acknowledges the importance of early, meaningful engagement with landholders and local communities. The Toolkit demonstrates that we are not waiting for regulation—we are proactively setting the standard,” she said.
“While QREC supports efforts to strengthen community outcomes, we note that the blanket retrospective application of the proposed Planning Act amendments to in-train applications may create uncertainty for current projects,” Ms Mulder said.
“There is likely to be devil in the detail. As always, implementation will be key, and QREC looks forward to working constructively with the Government and the Local Government Association of Queensland to ensure that new Community Benefit Agreements are aligned with the Government’s ongoing commitment to affordable and reliable energy.”
QREC will engage in the upcoming Parliamentary Committee inquiry into the proposed Planning Act amendments, expected to report by 20 June, and will contribute to consultation on the Development Assessment rules, Regulation and Solar Farm Code by 3 June.
Ms Mulder said the Toolkit—developed in collaboration with the agriculture, First Nations, environmental and social services sectors, alongside Coexistence Queensland and sponsored by The Energy Charter—was a strong example of how industry is already embracing robust community engagement.
“These resources support respectful, transparent, and enduring partnerships across Queensland and reflect the renewable energy sector’s broader commitment to delivering shared value with communities.”
Ms Mulder emphasised that the Toolkit reflects the industry’s broader commitment to social impact and project success, regardless of legislative requirements.
“QREC’s leadership in this space shows that industry is not only ready for social impact assessments, but already using them as best practice,” she said.
QREC will continue to promote community engagement by co-hosting the upcoming Queensland Community Renewables Forum in Hughenden on 30 May, following successful events in Roma, Nebo, and Miles.
“Our State is growing, and so is our energy demand. With tools like this Toolkit and continued collaboration, Queensland can deliver renewable energy projects that earn and maintain community trust.”
For more information on the Planning Act consultation, visit: https://www.planning.qld.gov.au/planning-issues-and-interests/renewable-energy
View the Queensland Renewable Energy Developer & Investor Toolkit
Visit the Queensland Community Renewables Forum website
As Queensland’s only renewable peak industry body, Queensland Renewable Energy Council (QREC) represents stakeholders across solar, wind, pumped hydro, electricity transmission, battery storage, and renewable fuels. QREC collaborates with industry, communities, and all levels of government to drive the growth of Queensland’s renewable energy sector.
For media enquires, please contact Katie-Anne Mulder on 0412 757 899