The advocacy campaign was adopted at today’s Ordinary Meeting of council (May 27, 2026).
Mayor Greg Williamson said the campaign sets out a clear, evidence-based case for targeted State and Federal Government investment to unlock Mackay’s next phase of growth.
“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.”
The advocacy campaign highlights Mackay’s role as a major economic contributor, with a $15.3 billion regional economy, a growing population and strong industry base across mining, agriculture, manufacturing, tourism and emerging sectors.
Mayor Williamson said the campaign focuses on priority investments that will unlock productivity, support population growth, strengthen liveability and deliver long-term national benefits.
“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.”
Other key priorities outlined in the campaign include:
- Critical water and sewerage upgrades to support growth
- The Mackay Waterfront Priority Development Area
- Expansion of the Finch Hatton Mountain Bike Trails
- Investment in industrial land and State Development Areas
- Increased delivery of social and affordable housing
- Development of the Future Foods BioHub and Resources Centre of Excellence.
Mayor Williamson said the campaign reinforced council’s long-term vision of making Mackay the best region for liveability and livelihood.
“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.”
Council will now actively engage with the Queensland and Australian Governments, industry stakeholders and regional partners to progress the advocacy priorities outlined in the campaign.