Roadmap 2035
At Advance Cairns, we play a pivotal role in shaping government policies and decisions as a trusted, non-partisan advocate for Cairns and the wider Far North Queensland region. We achieve this by developing strategic policy positions that drive regional growth and development, championing the interests of Far North Queensland, and enhancing the influence of our members and partners.
Our priorities at Advance Cairns are the result of comprehensive consultations with regional stakeholders, our members, and the broader business community, as well as engagement with all three levels of government. These priorities are essential for unlocking the full potential of Far North Queensland and ensuring sustainable regional advancement.
Roadmap 2035: A Framework to Strengthen FNQ
The Roadmap 2035: A Framework to Strengthen Far North Queensland (the Roadmap) is an ambitious framework developed by Advance Cairns working with industry, and the broader Far North Queensland community to achieve economic growth, sustainability and long-term prosperity over the next decade and beyond.
Developed over two years with extensive input from members, stakeholders, regional communities, and all levels of government, the Roadmap sets out clear goals underpinned by measurable objectives, all aimed at unlocking opportunity for the region’s future. These goals articulate the role to be played by Advance Cairns and those initiatives which will be led by other stakeholders but which we will support. Importantly, it brings together our ambitions in a single document to ensure there is alignment around key areas of focus and opportunity for Far North Queensland.
The pillars
The Roadmap is built around five interconnected pillars, adapted from the Regional Australia Institute, which reflect the key elements driving Far North Queensland’s regional economy. Each pillar supports the others—none can stand alone.
The five pillars are:
1. Our Place in the Region
2. Diversification and Innovation
3. Liveability
4. Sustainability
5. Jobs and Skills
Our Place in the Region
This pillar focuses on leveraging Far North Queensland’s unique geographic, economic, and cultural strengths to drive growth, with a strategic pivot towards the north, the Asia-Pacific. Key goals include expanding agricultural and trade opportunities, strengthening our international connectivity through Cairns Airport, and enhancing industries like maritime, aviation, and advanced manufacturing to position the region as a vital hub for Australia and beyond.
Diversification and Innovation
This pillar seeks to position Far North Queensland as a global leader in food and water security, leveraging natural advantages such as abundant water, fertile soils, and clean, green agriculture. Key goals include fostering innovation, strengthening professional services, and securing government support to unlock the region’s full economic potential.
Liveability
A thriving region requires a high quality of life, with well-planned infrastructure, affordable housing, and access to essential services. This pillar focuses on advocating for the Cairns University Hospital, addressing housing shortages, improving public transport, and ensuring sustainable urban development to support economic growth while preserving the region’s natural beauty.
Sustainability
This pillar focuses on leveraging Far North Queensland’s unique biodiversity, cultural heritage, and natural resources to drive a sustainable, decarbonised economy, ensuring long-term prosperity while protecting the environment. Key goals include embracing regenerative practices, balancing economic growth with conservation, and positioning the region as a leader in sustainable development.
Jobs and Skills
A skilled workforce is essential for the region’s future. This pillar focuses on growing local talent and attracting skilled professionals by aligning education with industry needs. Key goals include improving workforce planning, enhancing tertiary education accessibility, and unlocking opportunities for youth, older citizens, and Indigenous communities to drive regional economic growth.
Bringing the Roadmap to life
The Roadmap was developed through extensive stakeholder engagement, drawing on the expertise of Advance Cairns’ members and aligning with key government and industry strategies. Input was gathered from federal, state and local initiatives, alongside sector research and industry experts through extensive workshops, workgroups and individual presentations.
We were delighted to bring to fruition two years of engagement, research and consultation at the launch of our Advance Cairns Roadmap 2035: A Framewrok to Strengthen Far North Queensland on Friday 14 February at the Cairns Convention Centre. We welcomed more than 160 guests including representatives of State Government and Opposition, mayors and councillors from across the region, and many members and other key stakeholders from across the private and public sector. View event gallery here.
Where to from here
Implementation
The success of the Roadmap’s implementation lies in collaboration by all stakeholders aligning behind a bold vision for the region.
The goals allow the region to identify and articulate opportunities, particularly those where we have a unique advantage.
The Advance Cairns team is modest in size, and we are only strong and effective through working with our members.
This Roadmap provides a set of actions based on engagement guided by our key principles. It is as much about what we do, as what we should not do. It is about focusing our ambition on key, achievable objectives.
Next steps
The Roadmap progress will be reported to members every three years to provide accountability and to keep the goals front-of-mind for all stakeholders.
This will allow us to reflect on what is working and what is not, and analyse what has changed to ensure we are agile and responsive in a changing world.