Bowen Hills PDA Rewrite: 50 Storeys, 4,000 More Homes, Comments Due
The scheme covers the 108-hectare precinct around the Showgrounds, the site of the 2032 athletes village. Finalisation is targeted for November.
Public submissions on the proposed amendment to the Bowen Hills Priority Development Area (PDA) development scheme close on 9 October. Economic Development Queensland (EDQ) says it aims to finalise the revised scheme in November 2026.
The changes were announced by Deputy Premier and Planning Minister Jarrod Bleijie on 17 September. They are proposals until the amended scheme is made.
Why it matters
Bowen Hills is the 108-hectare precinct around the Brisbane Showgrounds, which the Queensland Government confirmed in August 2025 as the site of the Brisbane Athletes Village for the 2032 Games. The amendment would reset the development rules for the land around it.
The headline change is height. Mixed-use sites over 3,000 sqm could go to 50 storeys in certain areas, up from a 30-storey limit, according to the ministerial statement. EDQ says the amendment aims to fast-track an additional 4,000 homes on top of the 23,000 already planned, for up to 27,000 homes.
For developers, two other changes matter as much as the height. The scheme would remove value uplift charges and strip back some sustainability and urban design requirements. Both lower the cost of delivering a project in the PDA.
The numbers
- PDA area: 108 hectares, declared in 2008.
- Proposed heights: up to 50 storeys on mixed-use sites over 3,000 sqm, in certain areas.
- Homes: 4,000 additional, beyond 23,000 already planned.
- Value uplift charges: proposed for removal.
- New land use: an “Artisan Food and Drink Industry” category, aimed at boutique breweries and micro-distilleries near the Showgrounds.
- Consultation: 17 September to 9 October 2026.
What’s next
Landowners and developers with sites over 3,000 sqm have until 9 October to lodge submissions with EDQ, by post, email or online form. Once the scheme is finalised, expect the first applications to test the 50-storey limit. More Brisbane planning coverage, including the Victoria Park stadium contract.
What we checked
What we checked ourselves, and where you can check it too.
- Public recordEDQ's consultation page sets public notification from 17 September to 9 October 2026, with finalisation of the amended scheme targeted for November 2026.View the record on yoursay.edq.qld.gov.au
- Public recordThe Queensland Government's August 2025 statement confirms the Bowen Hills showgrounds will host the Brisbane Athletes Village, for more than 10,000 athletes and officials during the Olympics.View the record on thepremier.qld.gov.au