The Queensland Government has taken over assessment of Dreamworld’s proposed 55.3-hectare mixed-use development on the northern Gold Coast, signalling its intent to fast-track housing and tourism projects of state importance.
Following a request from City of Gold Coast Mayor Tom Tate, the Government issued a “call-in” notice, giving Deputy Premier and Minister for State Development, Infrastructure and Planning Jarrod Bleijie the power to determine whether the Dreamworld Masterplan meets state priorities on housing supply, tourism, infrastructure, and environmental protection.
The development application, lodged by Coast Entertainment Operations Limited, covers land adjacent to Dreamworld and WhiteWater World. It outlines four proposed precincts — a major tourism core for the existing parks, a nature-based tourism area with eco-walks and viewing platforms, a gateway precinct for short-stay accommodation and hospitality, and a town-centre transition zone for housing and retail.
Mr Bleijie said the plan had “the potential to transform underutilised land into a vibrant mixed-use precinct that supports tourism, more housing and long-term local jobs”. He said Dreamworld had previously spent years seeking approval under the former government, adding that the new approach was about “taking a holistic view” and ensuring the right infrastructure and road networks were in place.
Environment and Tourism Minister Andrew Powell said the Government wanted to bring more certainty and timeliness to tourism development. “Tourism contributes one in 11 jobs in Queensland, and this proposal has the potential to help supercharge local businesses who rely on visitors to employ more Queenslanders,” he said.
Local MPs on the northern Gold Coast have backed the intervention, saying it would ease housing pressures and attract new investment. Member for Coomera Michael Crandon said it showed “a determination to deliver real housing options and world-class tourism,” while Theodore MP Mark Boothman said it sent a clear signal that “the Government is cutting through red tape and backing projects that deliver real benefits for Queenslanders.”
Acting Mayor Mark Hammel welcomed the move, saying Dreamworld had been a major asset to the city for more than four decades. “This decision will ensure further investment, supporting local jobs. We look forward to new tourism product entering the market, as well as additional supply to our housing market,” he said.
Dreamworld CEO Greg Yong said the call-in was “a big step forward and a real turning point for the northern Gold Coast.” He added that the company was ready to work closely with the state to “bring this project to life as soon as possible.”
The proposal comes at a time of strong population growth and housing demand in southeast Queensland, as well as mounting anticipation of tourism expansion ahead of the 2032 Brisbane Olympics. Dreamworld has invested more than $180 million in upgrades over the past four years, supporting more than 1,000 jobs.
However, environmental concerns remain part of the discussion, with earlier planning documents indicating potential impacts on koala habitat and local infrastructure. By calling in the proposal, the Queensland Government assumes responsibility for balancing these environmental and economic priorities.
The final decision will test whether state intervention can speed up major development while maintaining community and environmental standards — a balance the Government says is central to its broader housing and tourism agenda.
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