E-Petition

The Petition of residents of the State of Queensland draws to the attention of the House that Queenslanders are experiencing extreme heat events more frequently than ever before, and it is impacting our health, wellbeing and productivity. Heatwaves claim more lives than any other natural hazard in Queensland, according to the State of the Environment Report 2024. Yet our planning system does not recognise heat as a natural hazard.

To address Queenslander’s exposure to extreme and cumulative excess heat, planning and urban design must incorporate cost-effective natural solutions, such as green spaces and canopy cover, particularly around homes, community hubs and transport routes. The first step to protect the health, wellbeing and community resilience of Queensland communities and reduce heat-related illness and mortality, is to recognise heat as a natural hazard in State Planning Policy.

Your petitioners, therefore, request the House to modernise the State Planning Policy so heat risk is considered alongside floods, bushfires and cyclones – ensuring all future development supports healthy, resilient communities in a warming climate.