Help shape the future of Nikenbah and Dundowran

Fraser Coast Regional Council is calling on the community to help shape how the Nikenbah and Dundowran areas could grow over the next 10 to 20 years.

Planning and Development spokesperson, Cr Denis Chapman, said the Fraser Coast’s population was growing rapidly, and now was the time to plan for the future communities' services, housing and infrastructure.

“The Nikenbah and Dundowran growth area covers more than 1,300 hectares of land and could support more than 10,000 houses in the coming decades,” he said.

“That would mean around 22,000 to 27,000 residents living in the area - about the same number of people who currently live in Maryborough.

“We’re looking at where homes, parks, roads, schools, shops and services might go as these areas grow.

“Our goal is to make sure these new neighbourhoods are well connected, with a good mix of housing and easy access to the things people need to live, work and enjoy life.

“We also want to protect the things that matter, like waterways, open spaces and natural areas.”

Cr Chapman said the project would also explore ways to provide a range of housing options.

“Right now, 93 per cent of homes in the region are detached houses. This project will look at how we can offer more variety, including smaller and more affordable homes that suit different needs and life stages,” he said.

Council is working with specialist planning consultants to carry out detailed investigations and lead community engagement activities across multiple project stages.

Cr Chapman said input from landowners, residents, businesses, community groups and other stakeholders would be vital in developing the long-term vision.

“This is a major planning project that will help shape the future of the Fraser Coast,” he said.

“We want to hear from the people who live here, work here and care about the future of these communities. Your ideas and feedback will help us plan better together.”

Community members can have their say by completing an online survey before 15 September 2025 and can learn more by attending an information session on Thursday 28 August.

To learn more about the project and information sessions, and to fill in the survey, visit Council’s Engagement Hub website at frasercoast.engagementhub.com.au/luipi

Council has received funding for this project through the Queensland Government’s Scheme Supply Fund, which provides financial assistance to local governments for key planning scheme improvements to meet their communities’ housing needs.