What’s happening?
Regional Queenslanders are calling for a smarter, fairer approach to renewable energy. A new report titled Shaping Renewables on the Downs: Community Priorities for a Just Transition was released today by the Darling Downs Environment Council (DDEC), Queensland Conservation Council (QCC), and Re-Alliance. The report reflects the voices of more than 100 community members who gathered in Toowoomba on Wednesday, 26 March.
The forum included landholders, Traditional Owners, researchers, government officials, and renewable energy representatives. Their message was clear: while renewable energy is supported, its rollout must be planned better and benefit the entire region.
Why it matters
The report highlights concerns about fragmented development and lack of coordination, echoing issues seen during the gas boom. DDEC Coordinator Ahri Tallon said, “People across the Downs want the renewable energy transition to succeed – but not at the expense of our environment, cultural values, or community cohesion.”
Mr Tallon also noted, “The forum revealed deep concerns that lessons from the gas boom have not been learned. We’re seeing fragmentation, duplication, and missed opportunities because of a lack of regional planning and coordination.”
Local Impact
Since the forum, the Queensland Government has introduced new rules requiring councils to set up community benefit agreements. However, DDEC believes more action is needed to ensure that local voices shape the region’s energy future.
“We need a shift from project-by-project approvals to landscape-scale planning that reflects the realities of rural Queensland,” said Mr Tallon.
By the numbers
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Over 100 community members attended the forum held on 26 March in Toowoomba.
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Five key priorities were identified for a just energy transition in the Downs.
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One report, developed by regional voices, offers a roadmap for how Queensland can do renewables better.
Zoom In
The report outlines five actions for government and industry:
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Regional planning using updated land use and biodiversity data
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Stronger environmental protection with net positive outcomes
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Fair benefit-sharing that includes neighbours and towns
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Clear rules for decommissioning and land restoration
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Accessible, region-specific information on projects and their impacts
Zoom Out
Across Queensland, the pace of renewable energy development is accelerating. Without proper planning, regional communities face the risk of repeating past mistakes seen during the gas industry expansion. The report stresses that government-led regional plans, community co-design, and independent oversight are essential.
What to look for next?
The report recommends that the Queensland Government:
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Develop regional renewable energy plans with local input
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Fund councils to run community benefit programs
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Set up an independent oversight body
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Launch a public platform for energy project information
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Increase investment in recycling and biodiversity protection
This roadmap is now in the hands of decision-makers. Communities across the Downs will be watching to see how seriously their voices are taken.