Queensland deputy premier approves housing plan amid $50,000 developer donation controversy

Deputy Premier Jarrod Bleijie signed a planning amendment that adds housing to a Narangba zone, where developer David Trask had recently donated $50,000 for a private lunch.

Queensland’s deputy premier and planning minister Jarrod Bleijie authorized a state-level planning instrument that replaces “enterprise” with “housing” in the Narangba East zone, permitting mixed residential and commercial-industrial development. The amendment coincides with developer David Trask, whose firms own six large blocks valued at $32 million, recently giving $50,000 to the Liberal National Party for a private lunch with Bleijie.

Trask maintains the region has long been considered for housing and that the change does not affect his pending subdivision applications, which remain under council review. Bleijie refused to discuss potential conflicts, stating the government’s priority is addressing the housing shortage. Opposition figures, notably Shadow Integrity Minister Leeanne Enoch, and transparency experts warn the donation and approval process could undermine public trust. The decision follows the state’s reversal of a ban on developer political donations and adds to concerns about politicians’ influence over land-value decisions.