Flinders Shire adopts new Renewable Energy Framework
Published on 27 February 2026
Flinders Shire Council has formally adopted its new Renewable Energy Community Benefit Framework Policy, establishing a clear financial and governance structure to ensure renewable energy developments and CopperString deliver lasting benefits for the Flinders community.
Adopted at Council’s February 2026 meeting, the policy provides certainty for industry while securing ongoing cashflow directed to the long-term interests of the Shire.
Mayor Kate Peddle said the framework reflects Council’s proactive approach to managing growth and positioning the region – including Hughenden – as a renewable energy leader and key contributor to CopperString’s economic development across the North.
“Flinders Shire has some of the best wind resources in the country, vast open landscapes, and a resilient, welcoming community so we should be powering the mines to our west and the industrial and export in Townsville to our east,” Mayor Peddle said.
“We recognise the enormous opportunity CopperString and renewable energy presents for our region, and we are ready to embrace our future as a renewable energy hub.
“From what I understand, we need to generate energy to meet growing demand and to support industry both in the West and Townsville whether you dig a hole or turn a blade, we're not overly particular about how it’s done.
“What I am absolutely focused on is ensuring that any industrial infrastructure built in Flinders Shire delivers real financial benefits to invest in community infrastructure.
“If we’re going to help satisfy that demand, then it must also support our communities – through jobs, infrastructure and long-term investment. That’s the balance we are focused on getting right.”
The policy introduces a transparent Community Benefit Contribution (CBC) structure applying to wind farms, large-scale solar and battery energy storage systems.
Key elements include:
- $250,000 per annum after Development Approval
- Commissioning phase contributions calculated on installed capacity (MW), indexed annually to CPI
- A structured framework supporting Council Legacy Projects and Community Legacy Initiatives
- Annual public reporting to ensure transparency and accountability.
Mayor Peddle said the framework ensures host communities receive a fair and measurable return.
“This CBC framework is a great step in the right direction,” she said.
“We are open for business. We are open to any opportunity that will sustain and grow our communities.
“Our job as elected members is to safeguard what we have and balance growth with our identity and our needs. We will prosper, and we will do it in genuine partnership with willing developers. We will protect the interests of our community first and forever.
“Our region is unique. There is a reason Hughenden has been earmarked as a renewable energy hub – it is an opportunity that has been afforded to us, and we will ensure our people come first.
“If developers want to be in the fold of our community, they will be willing participants in our success. We seek economic benefit and expect significant uplift for our towns from the projects hosted here.”
The policy aligns with Queensland’s statutory planning framework and integrates Social Impact Assessments and Community Benefit Agreements into a structured negotiation process prior to development application lodgement.
Mayor Peddle said Council’s approach balances investment attraction with community protection.
“We know that renewable energy is one part of Queensland’s energy future – and Flinders Shire intends to play a leading role in shaping what that looks like on the ground,” she said.
“We need CopperString 2032 started so we can provide certainty and assurances to everyone along the line, including our renewable energy partners here in Flinders. Transmission infrastructure is critical to unlocking the full potential of our region.
“The David Crisafulli Government has made a steadfast commitment to CopperString and strengthened our position by ensuring that elected members of impacted communities across Queensland are front and centre in leading these negotiations and agreements, and securing real money that benefits local residents.
“We commend their leadership in recognising that local voices must help shape local outcomes.
“Understanding how energy works and its importance to the state is one thing. Ensuring our community benefits is a necessity. That is our responsibility.
“We look forward to announcing successful Community Benefit Agreements with the proponents of our Shire and seeing those agreements translate into real infrastructure, real investment, and real opportunity for our people.”
Council believes the framework strengthens the Shire’s competitive advantage while reinforcing community trust.
“This policy sends a strong signal that we welcome investment, we value collaboration, and we are committed to ensuring our community shares in the benefits – today, tomorrow and for generations to come,” Mayor Peddle said.
The Renewable Energy Community Benefit Framework Policy will be reviewed annually to ensure it remains contemporary and aligned with community priorities.