Planning a vibrant future for Kooralbyn town centre
Published on 24 June 2026
A shared vision for the future of Kooralbyn has been brought to life through close collaboration between Scenic Rim Regional Council and the local community following endorsement of the Town Centre Master Plan.
Comprising residents and chaired by Divisional Councillor Jennifer Sanders, the Kooralbyn Town Centre Master plan Committee was formed in early 2025 to work closely with Council to develop a draft master plan to reflect a shared vision and the strategic direction for a future town centre.
Following the community consultation, the Kooralbyn Town Centre Master Plan has been fine-tuned to ensure it aligns with community aspirations and was endorsed by Council at today's Ordinary Meeting.
Cr Sanders said community input has shaped a master plan that balances growth with the protection of Kooralbyn’s rural character.
“This plan sets a strong foundation for future investment, improved infrastructure and a town centre that continues to serve both residents and visitors.
"It positions Kooralbyn for a sustainable and well‑connected future, shaping a town centre that brings people together and supports local businesses and community values.
"The community has clearly indicated that future development should improve and maintain what makes Kooralbyn unique."
Cr Sanders said the Kooralbyn Town Centre Master Plan captures the community’s vision for a vibrant and connected town centre and is a signature project under Council’s Corporate Plan 2025–2030 Planning and Place Making strategic goal.
The plan aligns with the Scenic Rim Growth Management Strategy 2041 and complements the Scenic Rim Integrated Transport Plan 2025–2035, guiding future infrastructure planning to enable Kooralbyn's sustainable growth and the protection of qualities cherished by residents and visitors.
The community consultation received a total of 51 of submissions, with 88 per cent of respondents living working or owning a business in Kooralbyn and 11 per cent visiting regularly, showing that the town centre serves both locals and visitors.
A further one per cent of respondents not living in the township indicated their connection to Kooralbyn through family history or owning a property.
With 80 per cent of respondents indicating they were either extremely or very supportive of the vision, the results of the community consultation show residents believe the master plan provides the direction for the future of Kooralbyn’s town centre and aligns with the values they hold for their township.
"The results consistently highlight a strong desire to preserve Kooralbyn’s rural character, natural beauty, and scenic qualities, while also supporting targeted improvements that enhance safety, accessibility, and everyday functionality," Cr Sanders said.
"Key priorities include the need for practical improvements to everyday infrastructure such as roads, drainage and footpaths alongside a strong desire to prioritise community access to sport and recreational facilities.
"Importantly, the feedback reflects a balanced perspective that supports thoughtful and sustainable growth, but not at the expense of the town’s rural identity, and highlights opportunities to refine and strengthen the plan's final version.
"Council would like to thank the Kooralbyn community's contribution and acknowledge the Kooralbyn Town Centre Master Plan Committee members' their local insights, knowledge and expertise."
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Jointly funded by Scenic Rim Regional Council and the Queensland Government.