Queensland ranked last for housing delivery amid planning system concerns
Queensland has been ranked the worst-performing state in Australia for housing delivery, missing its annual housing target by 15,782 homes, according to a national housing report card
The report, which assesses state government efforts to address the nation’s housing shortage, awarded Queensland just 1.5 out of five, placing it at the bottom of the rankings. Industry groups have attributed the shortfall to a fragmented planning system and excessive red tape, which they say is slowing the construction of new homes at a time of rising demand.
The Housing Industry Association criticised the state’s planning framework, highlighting inconsistencies across its 77 local councils, each operating under different rules. Executive director of planning and environment Sam Heckel said the lack of uniform standards creates barriers for developers, forcing them to navigate a complex and often contradictory system.
Property sector representatives say the approval process is a key bottleneck, particularly for greenfield subdivisions. Despite strong demand, industry figures report delays linked to local government approvals, infrastructure limitations, rising construction costs, and labour shortages. These factors have made it difficult to increase housing supply, even when development projects receive initial approval.
Other states performed more strongly in the report. Western Australia and South Australia received the highest scores, each earning three out of five, largely due to land release programs and rezoning efforts designed to increase supply. New South Wales was also recognised for implementing planning reforms, including state-led rezonings and development coordination initiatives.
The Queensland Government has defended its record, saying it inherited longstanding issues and is working to accelerate housing construction. Housing Minister Sam O’Connor said more than 98,000 homes have already been unlocked through government programs, with further reforms planned. These include a new statewide housing code intended to streamline regulations and remove duplication between planning and building laws.
Property experts warn that supply constraints remain a major concern, particularly in high-demand areas such as Brisbane, where available housing stock is significantly lower than a year ago. Industry leaders say improving access to new housing will be critical to easing affordability pressures and ensuring supply keeps pace with population growth.
Calls have been made for greater coordination between state and local governments to streamline planning processes and reduce regulatory barriers, with stakeholders warning that failure to act could worsen housing shortages and affordability challenges across the state.
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