Gold Coast Land Resumption Update

As the Gold Coast's planned road-widening projects proceed, many local homeowners, particularly those along Christine Avenue in Burleigh Heads, are facing uncertainty.

According to recent reports, resumptions may have an impact on hundreds of properties in the area, which has residents concerned about the future of their homes.

The council's long-term infrastructure plans to reduce traffic and handle population growth mean some people may find their homes are claimed and they have to move elsewhere. The experience can be emotionally taxing and have negative financial consequences if it is not handled well.

If you have received notice or suspect your property may be impacted by road widening on the Gold Coast, you need to know your rights under Queensland’s land resumption laws and the options available to you.

Understanding the legal framework for land resumption in Queensland

In Queensland, the power to resume land is outlined in the Acquisition of Land Act 1967.

This legislation enables government authorities, including councils, to acquire private land for public purposes such as road upgrades, transport projects or utility installations.

The steps in the process include:

• Notice of Intention to Resume (NIR)

  • A formal notification that your property may be required.

• Objection Process

  • Owners have the right to object in writing and present their case in support of their objection.

• Taking of Land

  • If the resumption proceeds, ownership transfers to the acquiring authority.

• Compensation

  • You are entitled to fair compensation for the loss of your property and any related costs.

For a more detailed breakdown of how these laws apply in real situations, you can read our guide on Government Land Resumption in Queensland.

While resumptions are lawful and not uncommon, it can take extra time to ensure you are properly and fairly compensated for financial loss and upheaval to your personal life. Knowing your rights and engaging professional advice early can make a significant difference.

Land resumption: What rights and options do homeowners have?

If your property is affected by a proposed resumption, you have several rights:

• To object: You can formally object to the proposed acquisition within a set time frame.
• To receive compensation: You are entitled to compensation that reflects the market value of your property, plus relocation costs, legal and valuation fees, and any loss of business or income (where relevant).
• To seek professional advice: Engaging a lawyer experienced in Queensland land resumptions ensures you understand the process, deadlines and what to expect in negotiations.

At NPR Law, we help property owners to review documentation, prepare objections and ensure compensation claims are fair and complete.

Read more about the resumption of property.

Gold Coast Land Resumption

The Christine Avenue project has garnered media attention due to its potential scale of impact, but it is not the only area under review. Other parts of the city are also being examined for future infrastructure upgrades, including:

Northern suburbs:

• Pacific Motorway and Coomera Connector
• Eggersdorf Rd (Ormeau)
• Foxwell Rd (Coomera)
• Jacobs Well Rd (Pimpama)
• Reserve Rd (Upper Coomera)
• Helensvale Rd (Coombabah)
• Molendinar

Coastal suburbs:

• Northcliffe Tce (Surfers Paradise)
• Palm Beach (east of the Gold Coast Highway)

If you live near these areas, it is worth staying informed and keeping an eye on council communications or public notices.

For a comprehensive overview of how resumptions can affect property owners across Queensland, you can also refer to our resource on Land Resumption in Queensland.

How NPR Law Can Help

Land resumption can be stressful, but you do not have to navigate it alone. NPR Law has extensive experience helping Queensland property owners protect their interests during the resumption process.

Our team can:

• Review and explain any notices you receive
• Guide you through the objection and negotiation stages
• Work with valuers to ensure you receive fair compensation
• Represent you in discussions with the acquiring authority

Resumption Information Meetings to help Gold Coast homeowners

We also host Resumption Information Meetings to help Gold Coast homeowners understand their rights and options in plain language. These sessions are free to attend and are designed to give practical guidance for anyone affected by resumptions. Fill out the form below to stay informed.