Council Invites Community Feedback On Sustainability Plans

Council is stepping up its sustainability leadership, unveiling a comprehensive draft Environmental Sustainability Strategy that delivers real, future focused action.

From expanding the urban tree canopy and managing natural environmental assets, to strengthening climate resilience, cutting carbon emissions and transforming waste management, the strategy lays out a clear roadmap to secure a cleaner, greener future for the region.

Council is inviting community members to have their say on the draft Environmental Sustainability Strategy 2026-2031, which sets the direction for how council will advance environmental sustainability over the next five years.

Mayor Greg Williamson said sustainability was about meeting the needs of today without compromising the future of our children and grandchildren.

“As a council, we have a responsibility to lead by example and this Sustainability Strategy sets out how we will continue to do just that,” Mayor Williamson said.

“We will work with other branches of government and local industry and stakeholders to advance regional sustainability, but we also have key actions around improving energy management at council and reducing emissions from our vehicle fleet and assets,” he said.

“There are also exciting advances being made in the waste management space.

“We are investigating environmentally safe opportunities to turn waste into energy to reduce landfill reliance and opportunities to reduce materials currently going to landfill.

“Together, by embracing environmental, social and governance (ESG) best practices, we can ensure that the region we pass on is as environmentally rich, economically strong and socially connected as the one we enjoy today.”

Sustainability Strategic Advisory Committee (SSAC) co-chair Cr Alison Jones said the strategy built on previous sustainability initiatives and outlined how council would embed sustainable practices across its operations, planning, infrastructure and service delivery.

“It also addresses the need to adapt to climate change pressures so that we can build a region that is resilient and able to respond to natural hazards like bushfires, coastal hazards, heatwaves, storms and flooding,” Cr Jones said.

SSAC co-chair Cr Peter Sheedy said the strategy reflected council’s ongoing commitment to protecting the amazing natural assets and hero experiences our region was known for.

“Mackay’s natural environment is one of our greatest assets, especially when it comes to tourism and liveability, and this strategy lays out a clear pathway to ensure we value, protect and enhance it,” Cr Sheedy said.

“There are key actions that involve working with regional partners in restoring high value ecosystems and natural areas and we are committed to continuing our existing initiatives like urban greening and our free plant giveaways,” he said.

“Of course, we are also asking the community to share their ideas and insights so the final strategy reflects local priorities and aspirations.”

The strategy is centred around five strategic pillars that will guide council’s priorities from 2026 to 2031:

• Embrace sustainability leadership as an organisation
• Protect and restore the natural environment and coast
• Enhance climate change adaptation and resilience
• Use resources wisely and cut emissions
• Strengthen community wellbeing and sustainability.

Implementation will be delivered annually through key initiatives and supported by a five-year action plan to monitor progress and ensure accountability.

The draft strategy is now available for public comment, and council is encouraging residents, businesses and community groups to provide feedback.

Consultation is open until Sunday, May 10, 2026 at 11.59pm.

Council is committed to protecting and restoring areas of natural environment with plantings and free plant giveaways. Photo supplied

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