As Cairns works to address growing housing demand, Cairns Regional Council has endorsed a submission on Economic Development Queensland’s (EDQ) proposed Mount Peter Priority Development Area (PDA) Development Scheme.
The Mount Peter PDA is expected to deliver approximately 18,500 homes for more than 42,000 residents and will play a crucial role in meeting the region’s future housing needs.
While Council supports the development of Mount Peter and the additional housing it will supply, the submission focuses on ensuring the Development Scheme clearly addresses the funding, delivery and long-term management of the infrastructure needed to support this growth.
Community feedback open until 28 October 2026
Mayor Amy Eden said Mount Peter represented a rare opportunity to shape an entirely new part of Cairns from the ground up.
“Mount Peter is our last major greenfield growth area. We have one opportunity to learn from what has worked, what has not, and build something better,” Cr Eden said.
“We know Cairns is going to grow. The question is what sort of city we choose to build as that growth occurs.”
Cr Eden encouraged residents to make their own submissions before public consultation closes.
“If people care about trees, shade, setbacks, parks, open space, walkability, cycling, housing diversity or how Mount Peter connects with the rest of Cairns, this is the time to say so.
“Once the Development Scheme is settled, much of the future development will proceed within the rules established through that scheme.
“So, if there is something the community wants to see protected, strengthened or designed differently, have your say now.”
Council aims to ensure future growth is delivered in a way that protects ratepayers while providing certainty for residents, investors and developers.
Creating connected and liveable neighbourhoods
Division 1 Councillor Brett Moller recognised the significant economic and lifestyle opportunities the PDA will create for the Mount Peter community.
“Residents will benefit from new neighbourhoods with parks, sports fields, pathways and cycleways, designed for life in a tropical environment,” Cr Moller said.
“We want people who move to Mount Peter to feel part of a well-planned and connected community from the very beginning, and we’re seeking housing typologies within the Mount Peter PDA that enhance and embrace the region’s tropical lifestyle.”
Long-term asset ownership and maintenance
Division 2 Councillor Matthew Tickner said Council’s submission is about getting the foundations right from the outset so that future communities have access to the infrastructure and services they need, when they need them.
“Building the necessary infrastructure is only part of the equation. Understanding who will maintain it and fund it over the next 30, 40 or 50 years is just as important,” Cr Tickner said.
“Getting these arrangements right from the outset will help ensure future residents have access to the infrastructure and services they need while protecting existing ratepayers from unforeseen costs.”
Council looks forward to continuing to work collaboratively with EDQ to refine the Development Scheme and support the delivery of the homes, infrastructure and services needed for Mount Peter’s growing community.
A once-in-a-generation opportunity
Cr Eden said the decisions made now would shape Mount Peter, and Cairns, for generations.
“We will not get another blank canvas like this. The opportunity now is to get the fundamentals right from the beginning and create a part of Cairns that future generations will be proud we planned well.”
The proposed Development Scheme’s public notification period is currently open, with submissions closing on 28 October 2026.
