'Build, baby, build': Politician's land approvals in spotlight amid donation spree

Queensland Deputy Premier Jarrod Bleijie approved town planning changes that could boost housing development in a zone where a developer donated $50,000 to the LNP for a private lunch. Bleijie's role in the changes has sparked concerns about potential conflicts of interest for politicians. The developer, David Trask, denies any conflict of interest, stating the area had long been considered for residential development.

Bleijie, known for promoting development, would not comment on conflicts of interest. The planning changes come as Queensland's LNP government has been pushing for housing policy improvements while overturning laws that banned developers from donating to state politics. The land in question is in Narangba, a suburb north of Brisbane, which has been explored for various uses, including residential and industrial.

The council sought a temporary freeze on development applications in the area to consider an enterprise zone, with Bleijie approving a 12-month instrument that now includes housing and commercial-industrial development options. Despite some restrictions, urban planning expert Rachel Gallagher noted the changes provide greater potential and clarity for developers, increasing land value in the long run.