Caloundra South commercial hub becomes target of state government crackdown

Several businesses have closed down while others are spending thousands for approval to stay at a growing new Sunshine Coast business park. Read why here.

Businesses are closing down or spending thousands of dollars on development applications after one complaint sparked a crackdown on a Caloundra South commercial hub.

The state government issued notices to some businesses at the $215m Aura Business Park that were found to be operating unlawfully, forcing them to lodge material change of use applications or close.

Several sources said it affected about a dozen businesses ranging from sport and recreational to cafes and retailers.

A Department of State Development spokesman confirmed it was working with each affected tenant on “how to lawfully operate”.

“While the Aura Business Park is suitable for Indoor Sport and Recreation, necessary approvals must first be obtained,” they said.

Aura Business Park businesses have had to close or are spending thousands on development applications after the state government issued notices to some they claimed were operating "unlawfully". Picture: Patrick Woods.

“EDQ (Economic Development Queensland) and Stockland have had discussions with local real estate agents to confirm what is acceptable and what processes need to be followed based on the development approval over the site.”

Danny Constable’s Mad Axe axe throwing business was the first to be affected and it closed down in January.

It is understood at least two other gyms which later received the same notices have closed, while other businesses are considering options.

The crackdown has been in response to one complaint.

Danny Constable had his axe-throwing business at Aura Industrial Park closed down by the state government after they found he did not have the right zoning. Picture: Patrick Woods.

Jiu jitzu gym Infinity Aura had its material change of use application approved last month and Aerial Evolution is awaiting a decision.

Aura is the first of two business parks at Stockland’s $5bn Caloundra South development, which as a declared Priority Development Area, requires land uses and changes to have state government approval.

Once completed it was estimated to be home to 3000 new jobs.

“Stockland makes accurate representations to third party developers about the town planning approval process required for certain land uses as well as their responsibilities when seeking and securing tenants,” a Stockland spokesman said.

“Aura Business Park is home to businesses of all sizes and we will continue to provide clear information to current and prospective customers, working alongside Economic Development Queensland.”