Now’s the time to build - Council extends fee waiver to drive resident

Published on 24 July 2025

Goondiwindi Regional Council will extend its fee waiver for new residential builds in existing water and sewerage areas for another 12 months, aiming to further encourage housing development across the region.

Adopted at Council’s July Ordinary Meeting this morning, the initiative waives water connection, plumbing and drainage, and building application fees for eligible builds within the existing water and sewerage areas submitted between 1 July 2025 and 30 June 2026.

Originally introduced last financial year to help address housing shortages, the program has already seen uptake from residents and developers.

Mayor of the Goondiwindi Region the Honourable Cr Lawrence Springborg AM urged locals and developers to take advantage of the opportunity presented by the extended waiver.

“While no means unique to the Goondiwindi Region, housing availability and affordability remain pressing issues locally,” Cr Springborg said. “Council is committed to using the tools we have at our disposal to help stimulate private sector investment and support residential development.”

Cr Springborg said for a typical new build, the fee waiver represents a saving of around $4,760.

“This is a meaningful incentive that can help tip the balance for those considering building,” Cr Springborg said. “We saw a positive response last year, and we’re hopeful even more residents will make the decision to build in the coming year.”

The waiver applies to a range of permanent residential buildings, including houses, duplexes, granny flats and townhouses, but excludes temporary dwellings and short-term accommodation. Applicants must submit a building application alongside any water connection requests. Approved builds must be completed within two years.

The initiative aligns with Council’s Local Housing Action Plan, adopted in January 2024. The plan outlines local and state-level actions to ease regional housing pressures, developed through stakeholder meetings, public forums, and a community-wide survey.

“These initiatives are designed to unlock opportunities for critical accommodation, especially for local families and essential workers,” Cr Springborg said. “Council remains focused on creating the conditions for growth and liveability across our region.”