What’s Happening?
Mackay Regional Council has adopted its “Building our future – Powered for growth” advocacy campaign.
The campaign was adopted at the council’s Ordinary Meeting on Wednesday, 27 May 2026.
Council said the campaign makes the case for targeted State and Federal Government investment.
It focuses on projects that could support Mackay’s next phase of growth.
Mayor Greg Williamson said Mackay was not waiting for growth to begin.
“Mackay is already one of Queensland’s strongest regional economies and this campaign is about building on that momentum,” Mayor Williamson said.
“We are not asking governments to start our growth – Mackay is already growing – we are asking them to partner with us to accelerate that growth in strategic areas,” he said.
“Through ‘Building our future’, council is presenting a suite of ready and strategically aligned projects that will deliver real outcomes – for our community and also for Queensland and Australia.”
Why It Matters
The campaign gives Mackay a clear funding pitch for major infrastructure, housing and industry priorities.
It also puts council’s long-term planning into one advocacy program for government and industry partners.
Mayor Williamson said the campaign focuses on priority investments that can support productivity, liveability and population growth.
“This is a comprehensive and disciplined advocacy program that identifies where investment will have the greatest impact,” he said.
“It covers critical infrastructure, housing, industrial land supply, tourism, transport, water security and emerging industries such as bio manufacturing and critical minerals.
“These are not aspirational ideas – many of these projects are shovel ready, backed by planning, feasibility work and strong community need.
“Others are projects that are outside of council’s jurisdiction but are vital for the continued growth of our region, with transport upgrades to the Mackay-Bucasia Road corridor being a prime example.”
By the Numbers
- Mackay’s regional economy is worth $15.3 billion, giving council a strong case for strategic investment.
- The advocacy campaign was adopted on 27 May 2026, during council’s Ordinary Meeting.
- The campaign names six key priority areas, including water, housing, tourism, industrial land and emerging industries.
Local Impact
For Mackay residents, the campaign is about linking growth with better services and more liveable communities.
The priorities include water and sewerage upgrades needed to support future development.
It also calls for more social and affordable housing, which remains a key local need.
Transport is another major focus, including upgrades to the Mackay-Bucasia Road corridor.
Council also wants investment in projects that support jobs and new industries across the region.
Zoom In
The campaign’s listed priorities include critical water and sewerage upgrades to support growth.
It also includes the Mackay Waterfront Priority Development Area.
The expansion of the Finch Hatton Mountain Bike Trails is another key priority.
Council is also seeking investment in industrial land and State Development Areas.
The campaign also calls for increased delivery of social and affordable housing.
It includes the development of the Future Foods BioHub and Resources Centre of Excellence.
Zoom Out
Council says Mackay has a strong industry base across mining, agriculture, manufacturing and tourism.
The campaign also points to emerging sectors that could shape the region’s next phase.
Mayor Williamson said Mackay had the workforce and industry strength to deliver wider benefits.
“Mackay stands at a pivotal moment – we have the scale, workforce and industry capability to deliver nationally significant outcomes,” he said.
“With the right partnerships and targeted investment, we can unlock even greater opportunities for jobs, economic growth and community wellbeing.
“This campaign sends a clear message: Mackay is powered for growth and ready to deliver.”
What To Look For Next?
Council will now engage with the Queensland and Australian Governments.
It will also work with industry stakeholders and regional partners to progress the campaign’s priorities.
The focus now moves from adoption to advocacy, as Mackay seeks funding support for projects tied to growth, jobs and liveability.
