Tropical North Economic Development Strategy

The Tropical North Economic Development Strategy (TEDS) was developed by RDA Tropical North in collaboration with the Far North Queensland Regional Organisation of Councils (FNQROC). The ongoing partnership with Torres Cape Indigenous Councils Alliance (TCICA), serves as the cornerstone for driving targeted, place-based investments in the region.

This strategy emerged from regional consultation and synthesis of 37 regional plans, reflecting the collective vision and priorities of local stakeholders.

The TEDS outlines economic, environmental, social, and cultural pillars for the region's economic needs over five years. It identifies key priority development areas and infrastructure projects, considering land-use perspectives, emerging growth industries and population growth. The strategy aligns with the revised Far North Qld Regional Plan, ensuring that regional priorities are consistent with state and federal investment decisions.

Key actions included:

1. Regional consultation and collaboration to gather local data and insights from stakeholders.
2. Development of transformational goals to guide the region.
3. Creation of strategic partnerships to strengthen ties with stakeholders, and signing of a Memorandum of Understanding with FNQROC.
4. Identification of crucial infrastructure projects, such as the Kuranda Range, and advocating for water security projects like the Lakeland Irrigation Area Scheme.

Outcomes to date include:

1. Improving digital connectivity by delivering the Regional Drought Resilience Plans.
2. Supporting the transition to a low carbon economy in the region through positioning the region’s cane industry as feedstock for Jet Zero’s sustainable aviation fuel.
3. Securing funding for the Etheridge Agriculture and Irrigation Precinct Stage 1.
4. Attracting public and private investments via a $2.4 million agricultural plastics recycling facility in Mareeba.

The TEDS strategy, through collaborative efforts, is fostering sustainable growth and infrastructure development in Tropical North Queensland, while enhancing regional resilience and economic diversity.

Learn more: TNQ Economic Development Strategy (TEDS) | RDA Tropical North