3,700 Homes and 2,000 Jobs Fast-Tracked as North Harbour Declared Priority Development Area

North Harbour’s long-term vision has taken a major step forward, with the Queensland Government officially declaring the project site a Priority Development Area (PDA) on 30 July 2025. The decision paves the way for thousands of new homes, a world-class marina precinct, and a major economic boost for the Moreton Bay region.

The PDA declaration, made under the Economic Development Act 2012, unlocks 420 hectares of land on the eastern side of the Bruce Highway, bordered by the Caboolture River. The Queensland Government’s public notice confirms the PDA “provides for around 3,700 new homes including villas, detached homes and apartments, marina and marine industry with 400 wet berths, a dry stacker for 500 boats and 511 private pontoons, and retail, tourism, public open spaces, and hotel development.”

An Interim Land Use Plan (ILUP) is now in effect, allowing development applications to proceed for an early release of approximately 200 dwellings while broader planning continues. According to the public notice, “PDA development applications over land in the North Harbour PDA are now assessed against the North Harbour PDA ILUP, effective 30 July 2025.”

North Harbour described the declaration as a “major milestone” for the growing community. “This important milestone unlocks the next stage of our long-term masterplan, clearing the path for more homes, new jobs, and the delivery of our vibrant waterfront precinct,” the company said. It added, “Whether you’re a current resident, future buyer, or business owner, this PDA declaration brings renewed certainty and opportunity. From new homes and lifestyle options to local jobs and marina access, this is a major step forward for the region.”

Behind the North Harbour project is Port Binnli, a company with over 30 years of experience in large-scale development. The founding directors said, “We are a small group of families who are determined to showcase the best in development.” The Port Binnli story began in 1993 when three “dyslexic left-handed” business owners – Peter Hooke, Neil Morris, and Malcolm Hall-Brown – came together to develop a marina project at Raby Bay. “When the three owners first came together, we realised that despite our shortfalls, we created some magic together because we all think very differently,” they explained.

Since then, Port Binnli has delivered several significant projects across Queensland, including the multi-award-winning Mackay Marina Village, which has been operating for more than 20 years. Port Binnli said, “Mackay Marina has matured into a beacon for the city of Mackay,” noting that the development has received “several Marinas of the Year awards” and is “a certified Clean Marina and the first marina in Queensland to qualify for Fish-Friendly Status.”

Looking ahead, Port Binnli added, “We want to ensure that Port Binnli and the associated companies continue to create innovative projects in terms of design, construction, and liveability that stand the test of time. All our projects prove our commitment to sustainability. We are at the forefront in creating world-class precincts that are not only great places to live but are destinations to visit and enjoy.”

The public notice confirms that “Economic Development Queensland (EDQ) is responsible for assessing development applications in the PDA” until the PDA development scheme is finalised. Community consultation on the proposed Development Scheme is expected to take place in mid to late 2026.

News of the declaration has been welcomed on social media. Lorraine Doidge said, “It’s been a long road. Congratulations on all the hard work that is finally paying off! Unfortunately many people don’t understand the process.” Kristen Trask wrote, “Hopefully it’s all full steam ahead now Thank god. It’s been a very hard and trying time for many years ..” Kent Jenner added, “Nice work to everyone involved…. Always been a terrific and valuable project!!!!”

For now, attention turns to the early release phase and the detailed planning work ahead. Community consultation on the full PDA Development Scheme is expected to take place in mid-to-late 2026, giving locals a chance to help shape the next chapter for North Harbour and the wider Moreton Bay region.