‘Unprecedented’: Value of commercial projects grow to almost $3 billion on Fraser Coast

With $327 million in subdivision works and $2.7 billion in building projects last year, the Fraser Coast has cemented its position as a development powerhouse of Queensland.

Unprecedented development growth was experienced on the Fraser Coast last year, with the value of commercial projects soaring from under $300 million in 2019 to nearly $3 billion in 2024.

Unprecedented development growth was experienced on the Fraser Coast last year, with the value of commercial projects soaring from under $300 million in 2019 to nearly $3 billion in 2024.

Fraser Coast Mayor George Seymour said in a statement on Thursday the region was progressing rapidly, with new lots and development applications more than doubling compared to pre-Covid levels.

“Development statistics for 2024 confirm the Fraser Coast is a regional Queensland powerhouse, consistently punching above its weight,” he said.

Fraser Coast Mayor George Seymour said in a statement on Thursday the region was progressing rapidly, with new lots and development applications more than doubling compared to pre-Covid levels. Photo: Stuart Fast

“In 2024, council processed 1000 development approvals, received 4453 building lodgements, and approved a record 1130 new titled lots, paving the way for the Fraser Coast’s continued population growth and construction boom in 2025.

“Among the approvals were 987 new dwellings, 225 new units, and 133 commercial developments, collectively valued at $2.7 billion — a figure significantly boosted by the state government’s rail manufacturing facility in Torbanlea.

“New residential subdivisions spanned over 121 development sites, complemented by ongoing expansions in 10 lifestyle villages.”

Major projects underway for 2025 include:

The Queensland Train Manufacturing Program facility in Torbanlea and associated new supply industries;

Continued development of the Hervey Bay Community Hub in Pialba, featuring a new library over two levels, a council administration centre and a Disaster Resilience Centre;

Concept designs for the new Sheraton Resort in Hervey Bay.

Maryborough Moonaboola Industrial Estate developments;

The Topaz and Opal seven-storey residential complexes in Shelly Beach.

Mr Seymour said the total value of construction and civil works in 2024 exceeded $3 billion, with $327 million in subdivision works and $2.7 billion in building projects.

“The construction industry is a cornerstone of the Fraser Coast economy, supporting 1431 local businesses and accounting for 21 per cent of all businesses in the region,” he said.

“Construction and progress drive economic growth, create jobs, and ensure the Fraser Coast remains a thriving, sustainable region for current and future generations.”

HBC Build Australia proposes building a 10-storey Radisson Hotel with 152 rooms and a 16-storey Sunlife over-50s complex with 150 apartments, along with a wellness centre, multipurpose conference room, restaurant and bar, and food and retail precinct.

Learn more about development applications online or share your feedback here.

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Originally published as ‘Unprecedented’: Value of commercial projects grow to almost $3 billion on Fraser Coast