Bowen Hills overhaul could allow 50-storey towers and 27,000 homes

Economic Development Queensland has released proposed amendments to the 108-hectare Bowen Hills Priority Development Area, about 3 km from the Brisbane CBD. The PDA was declared in 2008 and sits beside the Victoria Park Olympic precinct. The changes could allow up to 27,000 homes, around 4,000 more than currently planned.

On mixed-use sites larger than 3,000 sq m, maximum heights would rise from 30 to 50 storeys and plot ratios from 9:1 to 12:1. The state also proposes removing several housing, sustainability and urban design requirements, dropping value uplift charges, and allowing more performance-based flexibility. A new land use category would allow artisan food and drink businesses, such as micro-breweries, near the Showgrounds.

• Submissions closed on 9 October 2026
• EDQ expects the amended scheme to be finalised in November
• The government cites a 466% rise in housing-related applications after similar changes at Woolloongabba
• UDIA Queensland said the amendments respond to industry feedback on feasibility

Why it matters for developers & landowners: Higher yields and lower charges can noticeably improve the feasibility of large inner-city sites. Landowners holding consolidated parcels in Bowen Hills should review their potential under the amended scheme once it is finalised.

Source: The Urban Developer, published 18 September 2026. Summary and commentary by GC Prestige — read the original article for full details.