The Queensland government has officially approved a 55.3-hectare masterplan for a major expansion of the Dreamworld site on the Gold Coast. Deputy Premier Jarrod Bleijie confirmed the approval, which facilitates a new tourism and resort precinct. The development includes a hotel complex estimated at over $200 million, alongside residential, retail, and eco-tourism facilities, intended to address accommodation shortages ahead of the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.
Project Scope and Precinct Development
The approved masterplan transforms the existing theme park footprint into a multi-faceted destination. According to Coast Entertainment Holdings, the project will feature four distinct precincts. These include the established Dreamworld and White Water World parks, a new hotel resort complex, eco-tourism attractions, and a town centre designed for housing, retirement, and residential care.
While Dreamworld CEO Greg Yong declined to provide a total cost for the entire masterplan, he confirmed the hotel development alone exceeds a $200 million investment. The project aims to integrate residential living with tourism infrastructure, specifically targeting land near existing heavy rail networks to support the growing Coomera community.
“This is a win for tourism, it’s a win for jobs, it’s a win for housing, it’s a win for retail and hospitality,” Deputy Premier Jarrod Bleijie said during the project announcement.
Fast-Tracked Approval and Infrastructure Requirements
The application had previously faced delays within the City of Gold Coast council before the state government intervened. Deputy Premier Bleijie fast-tracked the process last year, citing a need for timely decision-making to encourage business investment. The state government’s approval process involved eight months of community consultation and technical reviews.
Did you know? The expansion is part of a broader strategy to bridge the gap in hotel accommodation between the northern Gold Coast and Brisbane, ensuring the region is prepared for the influx of visitors expected for the 2032 Olympic Games.
To mitigate the impact of increased traffic, the government has attached specific conditions to the approval. According to state officials, these conditions mandate that local road network upgrades must occur in stages as the development progresses to manage congestion.
Environmental and Habitat Considerations
The expansion plan has drawn attention to local environmental impacts, particularly concerning wildlife. An ecological report submitted to the City of Gold Coast council during the application process identified that the proposed development site contains 42,285 square metres of koala habitat. The report noted this area is home to 1,072 koala habitat trees.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is included in the Dreamworld expansion?
The expansion features four precincts: the existing theme parks, an eco-tourism zone, a hotel resort with retail and entertainment, and a town centre with residential and retirement facilities.
When was the expansion approved?
Deputy Premier Jarrod Bleijie announced the formal approval of the 55.3-hectare masterplan following an eight-month consultation period.
How will the project impact local traffic?
The government has imposed conditions on the approval requiring developers to upgrade the local road network as the project progresses to account for increased traffic volume.
Does the plan affect local wildlife?
Yes, an ecological report lodged with the council indicates the expansion site includes 42,285 square metres of koala habitat containing 1,072 koala habitat trees.
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