Council adopts Priority Projects Advocacy Plan for 2025-2028
Posted on July 24, 2025
Central Highlands Regional Council has adopted its 2025-2028 Priority Projects Advocacy Plan, outlining a coordinated and strategic approach to securing investment and policy support across all levels of government.
The plan identifies major infrastructure and service priorities critical to the continued growth, liveability and economic resilience of the Central Highlands region.
The plan focuses on key areas such as water security, waste management, transport infrastructure, community services, and economic development.
Mayor Janice Moriarty said the plan gives council a clear focus for the region’s future.
‘With pressure growing on housing, infrastructure and freight routes, we’re acting now to prepare for future challenges and opportunities,’ Mayor Moriarty said.
‘This plan sharpens our advocacy efforts so we can secure the investment, infrastructure and services our communities need.’
‘By setting clear priorities, we’re putting the region in the best position to grow and thrive – now and into the future.’
The 2025-2028 plan outlines council’s top priority projects, including:
- Lochlees Landfill expansion, addressing urgent capacity issues at the region’s primary waste site near Emerald
- Water security, with upgrades needed across 15 water supply systems nearing the end of their service life
- Road infrastructure, supporting 4,500km of council roads and 1,100km of state roads, including upgrades to key freight and industry routes.
In addition to these projects, council will advocate for broader regional challenges including:
- Stage 2 of the Queensland Beef Corridors
- Increased affordability of accommodation and regional airfares
- Access to childcare, aged care, dementia care and allied health services.
Central Highland Regional Council, Chief Executive Officer, Aaron Johansson said the plan gives council a focused and coordinated approach to advocacy.
‘We’ve built this plan not just to advocate, but to deliver. With clear priorities and a structured approach, we’re ready to act when funding opportunities arise,’ Mr Johansson said.
‘This plan ensures our efforts are focused, collaborative, and aligned with what the community has told us they need.’
To view the full Priority Projects Advocacy Plan.
