The new Ipswich City Plan 2025 has been in effect since 1 July 2025, with more than 400 development applications having been received before 30 September 2025.

During this time, council has been monitoring enquiries and applications received and has prepared its first amendment package to improve the way it operates and ensure the scheme remains contemporary and robust.

Amendment Package 1 consists predominately of operational, minor or administrative amendments to correct or improve the functioning of the Ipswich City Plan 2025. It has been prepared as an initial, quick response to address operational matters and to correct minor content errors identified since commencement.

The amendments also include the addition of two new local character listings, as well as enhancements to the character provisions to improve the operation of the code.

Prior to the adoption of these amendments, council is seeking community input and feedback through formal consultation.

The purpose of the amendment package includes providing for:

• increased efficiency (correcting administrative inconsistencies);
• functional improvement and clarity (making things clearer and simpler);
• enhancements to character provisions (two new listings and improved operation of code); and
• editorial matters (fixing spelling, grammar, numbering, and formatting).

These operational amendments seek to reduce the need for applications by improving the assessment triggers and use of Accepted Development Subject to Requirements (ADSR) application pathways, particularly for Class 10 building work (sheds, garages, carports etc) in areas affected by overlays.

While some of the proposed changes to the categories of development assessment include changes that will require the lodgement of development applications, most aim to reduce the need for applications by providing new ADSR pathways, or by improved wording in the required outcomes. The changes that require applications are generally corrections rather than changes to policy.

The main amendments in the package are contained to the following parts of the planning scheme, with track changes included in the supporting change report:

• Part 4 – Local Frameworks
• Part 5 – Categorisation Tables
• OV3 – Character Places and Areas Overlay Code
• OV6 – Building Height and Density Overlay
• OV11 – Difficult Topography and Landslide Overlay Code
• OV12 – Flood Risk and Overland Flow Overlay Code
• OV15 – Water Resource Catchments Overlay
• Dwelling House and Dual Occupancy Code
• Transport And Parking Code
• SC6.4 – Transport and Parking Planning Scheme Policy
• Schedule 7 Local Character Places

Amendment Package 1 can be viewed online at ipswich.qld.gov.au/cityplan

Access the Proposed Amendment Change Report here.

The community is now able to provide feedback on Amendment Package 1 to council. Your input is important to assist in considering and refining of the proposed amendment package.

The public consultation period will run from Thursday 5 February 2026 to Friday 6 March 2026.

During this period, any person may make a written submission about any aspect of the proposed Amendment Package 1.

Submissions may be made:

• Online at Ipswich City Plan 2025
• By post to the Manager, City Design, Ipswich City Council, PO Box 191, Ipswich QLD 4305
• In person at council’s Concierge Reception Area, 1 Nicholas Street, Ipswich
• By email to planningscheme@ipswich.qld.gov.au

For more information, contact council by phone on (07) 3810 6666, or email planningscheme@ipswich.qld.gov.au