Glen Elmes
Aboriginal Affairs Minister Glen Elmes

October 17, 2013

Cherbourg has become the second Indigenous community in Queensland to adopt a Land Use Planning Scheme.

Aboriginal Affairs Minister Glen Elmes said the planning scheme, which came into effect this month, would let the Shire Council manage developments in a way that met community expectations.

“The planning scheme is an important step in bringing about improvements for the Cherbourg community, and supporting economic development,” Mr Elmes said.

“The Planning Scheme focuses on identifying areas for future development that are not impacted by natural hazards, or areas of cultural and ecological significance.

“It gives Cherbourg Aboriginal Shire Council the tools to guide its decisions about residential, commercial and industrial growth into the future.

“By working together with the community, the Shire Council and other groups, we are helping improve the lifestyle of community members while protecting natural surroundings.

“This is an example of how the Queensland Government, in partnership with the Cherbourg Aboriginal Shire Council, is helping improve lifestyle and economic outcomes for the local community.”

The Department of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander and Multicultural Affairs worked with the Cherbourg Aboriginal Shire Council and a planning consultant in the development of the planning scheme, with input from the Councillors and the community.