The Gulf Regional Development Plan ( 896 KB) is a joint government and community initiative. It encourages and guides sustainable growth and development of the Gulf region over the next 20 years.

The plan aims to provide a broad-level planning framework within which future decisions can be made with greater confidence, certainty and community support. It also intends to ensure that growth and development can be managed in a manner consistent with the Gulf Region's economic, environmental and social values.

The Gulf Region extends east from the Northern Territory - Queensland border to include the shires of Burke, Mornington, Carpentaria, Croydon and Etheridge and the Aboriginal councils of Doomadgee and Kowanyama.

The Gulf Region's land area covers approximately 186,000 square kilometres with a total resident population of approximately 8000 as at 30 June 2001. An abundance of natural, cultural and historical assets exist in the region. The region's economic base relies on its pastoral, fishing, mining and tourism industries, which are supported by a number of small communities.

The Gulf Regional Development Plan is intended to advise government on how to best achieve future priorities for economic and social development, infrastructure provision and environmental protection. It was publicly released on 22 March 2001 by the former Minister for Local Government and Planning, Nita Cunningham.

Complete document

Gulf Regional Development Plan ( 896 KB) 

Document sections

Alternatively, you can download the Gulf Regional Development Plan in smaller sections suitable for slower internet connections.

Table of Contents and Executive Summary ( 50 KB)

Section 1 ( 249 KB)

Section 2 ( 206 KB)

Section 3 ( 255 KB)

Section 4 ( 128 KB)

The Gulf Regional Planning Advisory Committee (RPAC) is responsible for developing the Gulf Regional Development Plan. The committee comprises 22 members and an executive officer from the department.