From leading the charge towards Brisbane 2032, to unlocking billions in infrastructure investment and revitalising regional waterways, the Council of Mayors (SEQ) today celebrates two decades of shaping the future of Australia’s fastest-growing region.
Established in 2005, with a shared vision to think, plan and advocate as one, the Council of Mayors (SEQ) brings together the region’s local governments to drive transformation across South East Queensland.
Over the past 20 years, the region has experienced remarkable growth, expanding from 2.6 million residents in 2005 to 4.1 million today, with projections reaching six million by 2046.
South East Queensland now generates two-thirds of Queensland’s economic output and is home to more than 75 per cent of the state’s population. A recent benchmarking report by the Council of Mayors (SEQ) reveals the region is growing three times faster than global peers, positioning it as one of the world’s most dynamic and liveable city-regions.
Throughout this period, Council of Mayors (SEQ) has championed infrastructure, river revitalisation and regional transformation for South East Queensland. This has included a focus elevating the needs of Australia’s fastest growing region through the halls of Canberra and Australia’s Parliament House.
Its pivotal role in securing the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games included 154 meetings with Federal and State MPs, nine advocacy delegations to Canberra and 2,328 dedicated days from SEQ Mayors voting to investigate the bid, through to the final award.
According to Deloitte’s Going for Gold report, the Brisbane 2032 Olympics and Paralympic Games are expected to generate $39.5 billion Gross Regional Product and create an additional 7,800 full time jobs across South East Queensland.
To mark the milestone, more than 100 South East Queensland’s Mayors, Councillors, and CEOs from across the region, joined by Queensland Premier David Crisafulli, gathered to reflect on the region’s legacy and look ahead to its future.
Other speakers included Managing Director, Enterprise and Business, Gladys Berejiklian; Night-life Economy Commissioner, John Collins; Director General, Department of the Environment, Tourism, Science and Innovation, Patricia O’Callaghan and Executive Director Queensland, Jess Caire.
As South East Queensland continues to grow, the Council of Mayors (SEQ) remains committed to shaping a resilient, connected, and globally competitive region.
Over the past 20 years, Council of Mayors (SEQ) has consistently delivered improved regional funding, policy and collaborative outcomes for the communities of South East Queensland. This has included:
- Conducting regular engagement with government including delegations to state and federal Parliaments, advocating for priority SEQ issues including housing, infrastructure and transport.
- Driving the Magnificent 7 projects in 2010, including the delivery of the Toowoomba Bypass, Gateway Upgrade North and Warrego Highway upgrades.
- Launching Resilient Rivers SEQ following the 2011 and 2013 floods, a landmark coordinated approach to catchment management and flood resilience. The program is now delivering more than $40 million of works to enhance catchment health and boost regional water security.
- A key role in driving improved regional planning, infrastructure and employment outcomes for SEQ through the development and implementation of the SEQ Regional Plan with the State Government.
- Launching the People Mass Movement Study in 2019, a strategic roadmap to meet the needs of a growing population and support a regional Olympics and Paralympics Master Plan.
- Leading the initial Olympic and Paralympic Games feasibility study in 2019 and supporting a successful bid-process that will deliver billions of dollars in infrastructure and transport upgrades, and long-term economic benefits.
- Securing a $1.8 billion City Deal in 2022 with more than 29 growth projects spanning waste, infrastructure, transport and digital initiatives.
- Partnering with Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) leader, Wisk Aero in 2023 to attract industry investment and unlock significant long-term economic, social and environmental benefits for SEQ
- Releasing Queensland’s first regional waste and resource recovery plan in 2021 which has supported significant investments for new recycling facilities and green bins unlocking up to $178.8m in the past three years alone.
- Developing the region’s first Smart Digital Plan to build a skilled digital workforce and thriving digital economy.
- Exploring global insights, partnerships and solutions to tackle some of South East Queensland’s biggest challenges including growth, connectivity, affordability, and waste.
