HOW the Ipswich Council handles agritourism ventures such as micro camping grounds and BnBs may be set to change.
And the changes may come through a push from the State Government.
The Crisafulli government has released a new planning guidance document that encourages Queensland councils to support agritourism ventures, including farm stays, cellar doors and food experiences through the local planning schemes.
The changes mean councils now have the information needed to take advantage and improve regional tourism.
Deputy Premier and Planning Minister, Jarrod Bleijie said the new guidance supports councils to cut red tape and unlock new opportunities for agritourism in their regions.
“Agritourism provides farmers with opportunities to diversify income streams and improve on-farm profitability,” Minister Bleijie said.
“It also fosters community identity, promotes sustainable environmental practices, builds greater appreciation and engagement in agricultural practices, and strengthens regional economies.
“Councils now have detailed guidance on how to best use their local planning tools to unlock regional tourism potential.
“Agritourism is a growing sector that connects people to the land, supports local jobs, and strengthens regional identity.”
President of Agritourism Queensland, dairyfarmer, Kay Tommerup, said the group were given the opportunity to provide insights from a farmers’ perspective into the development of the planning guidance.
“We look forward to working with state and local government to support the implementation of changes that recognise agritourism as ancillary use for our farmers, reducing red tape and costly development applications to encourage responsible growth and experience development within our industry,” Ms Tommerup said.
“We’re encouraged by the Crisafulli Government’s commitment to reducing regulatory barriers for businesses.”
Other groups which had input into the agritourism planning guidance were the Queensland Farmers Federation, the Local Government Association of Queensland and a number of councils.
The guidance document offers councils practical advice on defining agritourism-related uses more clearly, streamlining assessment for low-impact ventures and integrating agritourism into strategic planning frameworks.
