South East Queensland councils launch joint digital plan

Councils in South East Queensland have announced goals to share in the use of smart technologies by 2035. They say South East Queensland’s first digital plan will aim to boost productivity, tackle cost-of-living, accelerate housing delivery and cut red tape for Australia’s fastest growing region.

The SEQ Digital Plan, an initiative of the SEQ City Deal, has a vision to transform everyday life for business and residents by improving the region’s digital capabilities, infrastructure, coordination and security.

It follows the 2025 independent ‘Benchmarking South East Queensland (SEQ) – in a global context’ report that highlights SEQ is 23% less productive than its global peer regions, with internet speeds falling below international averages.

Digital technology can help to cut red tape, lower costs and make everyday services faster and simpler for businesses, communities and visitors. Artificial intelligence (AI) is already showcasing how digital technology can help streamline processes and enhance decision-making.

For example, it could enable SEQ to better optimise traffic management and tackle congestion; improve how the region monitors, analyses and manages its waterways and environment; and fast-track planning for land and infrastructure to support the delivery of more homes sooner, according to the councils.

The Plan aims to position SEQ to respond to emerging technologies that are driving the next wave of innovation, investment and industry growth.

The councils say SEQ is shaping up as a hub for innovation and commercialisation, and that a united digital vision that supports the rollout of data centres, global broadband connectivity and advanced computer infrastructure is critical for SEQ’s long-term economic and jobs growth. It will also help to ensure SEQ is prepared for the growing digital demands and virtual engagement opportunities as host of the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

“South East Queensland is already one of the most exciting regions in the country and this plan is about making sure we stay ahead of the curve,’ said Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner, Chair of Council of Mayors (SEQ), “By embracing digital technology from AI through to quantum computing, we can unlock new opportunities, reduce costs for families and deliver services faster and smarter.

“It also means we can back local industry and build the digital capabilities we need for the future, especially as we look ahead to the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.”

“The Committee for Brisbane has long supported the need for a clear, shared digital direction,” said The Committee for Brisbane CEO, Jen Williams. “Alignment at a regional level reduces risk, attracts private investment and creates the conditions for innovation to scale in ways that deliver real benefits for communities.

“The next five years is pivotal. With the SEQ Digital Plan grounded in getting the fundamentals right, the focus on practical enablers such as connectivity, data standards and coordinated delivery is both timely and necessary.”

The SEQ Digital Plan is an initiative under the SEQ City Deal, a partnership between the Australian and Queensland Governments and the Council of Mayors (SEQ).

The Plan can be found here.

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