The Scenic Rim Regional Council has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting agritourism camping across the region, focusing on community safety and sustainable land use as it works to develop clearer pathways for local farm-stay operators.
This decision, announced on 8 April 2026, marks a shift for rural landholders in areas like Canungra, following a period of tension regarding permit requirements. The council’s move comes after a challenging 2025, when some property owners received warning letters regarding potential fines of up to $32,000 for operating campgrounds without formal development permits. Many farmers have noted that the costs for these permits can range from $40,000 to over $100,000, which has been described as a significant barrier for small-scale businesses.
The Scenic Rim Regional Council noted that agritourism is a vital part of the local economy, contributing approximately $274 million and supporting more than 2,300 local jobs in the year ending September 2025. In response to community concerns, including a petition signed by about 20,000 people in May 2025, the council established a Camping Working Group to help improve how these ventures are managed.
The council’s updated approach aligns with broader state-level guidance. In November 2025, the Queensland Government released new planning advice encouraging local councils to support agritourism, such as farm stays and food experiences. Deputy Premier Jarrod Bleijie has stated that the state government expects councils to reduce red tape as part of the Destination 2045 tourism strategy.
While moving forward, the council has emphasised that safety remains a primary concern. Officials have acknowledged that some existing camping sites are located in areas prone to natural hazards like bushfires, flooding, or landslips. Consequently, the council is now focused on balancing the push for economic growth with necessary disaster management and risk mitigation strategies to ensure the long-term sustainability of the industry.
About this article: This story was put together with the help of AI tools and checked by a real person on our team. We're a small crew trying to cover as much of Australia as we can on a limited budget. We're getting better every day - but we're not perfect yet. If something looks off, let us know here. You're part of the process.
