Council is calling on residents to have their say on the draft Mackay Region Housing Strategy 2025–2030, which sets out a roadmap to ensure future housing supply meets the community’s changing needs. Council recognises that housing needs vary across life stages, household types and income levels, and community input is essential to ensure our future housing reflects these diverse needs.
The strategy responds to a growing imbalance between the types of homes people need and the ones currently available. Around 60 per cent of Mackay households now consist of one or two people, yet 85 per cent of homes are detached dwellings – and almost all of those have three or more bedrooms. This mismatch makes it harder for singles, older residents and small families to find homes that are both suitable and affordable.
Over the next twenty years, the region is expected to welcome another 36,000 residents. The draft strategy aims to plan for that growth by encouraging more diverse housing types – including townhouses, villas, apartments and dual occupancies – in areas close to jobs, transport and services. It also seeks to maintain the unique character of Mackay’s neighbourhoods while improving choice and affordability.
Another key issue identified is the large number of undeveloped lots that already have planning approval. There are currently around 5000 approved lots sitting idle. The strategy proposes exploring incentives and reforms to bring more of these lots to market, such as reviewing infrastructure charges and rates on vacant land, and working with developers to understand the barriers.
Council is also advocating for an increase in public and social housing, with a target of at least 500 new dwellings over the next five years. Housing supply is critical to the region’s economic future – without a range of housing options, it becomes much harder to attract and retain the workforce our growing industries need. This strategy is about ensuring Mackay remains an affordable, liveable and inclusive place for everyone.
The draft Housing Strategy is open for public feedback until Wednesday, 30 October 2025.
Residents can read the strategy and complete the online survey at connectingmackay.com.au/housing-strategy, or request a printed copy by emailing engagement@mackay.qld.gov.au, or calling 1300 MACKAY.
Cr Belinda Hassan
Let’s Chat – Council Connect
Residents can catch up with councillors in person at upcoming Let’s Chat - Council Connect sessions held across the region. The next session will be at Seaforth Bowls Club from 5.30pm to 6.30pm on November 5.
Details on upcoming sessions can be found on the Connecting Mackay website.
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