How the work of the Office of the Coordinator-General has shaped Queensland

Since its inception in 1938, the role of the Coordinator-General has been central to Queensland’s economic and social development.

From reviving to thriving

Established in the wake of the Great Depression, the Coordinator-General was tasked with coordinating the provision of public infrastructure and stimulating job creation. These were critical measures to restore economic stability and rebuild confidence across the state.

One of the Coordinator-General’s earliest large-scale undertakings was the post-World War II soldier settlement scheme. This involved the acquisition of land and construction of housing to support returning servicemen.

In addition to providing homes, the scheme revitalised regional economies and boosted agricultural productivity. This positive impact on the state was achieved through the Coordinator-General’s coordinated infrastructure and land planning.

Adapting to Queensland’s needs

Over the decades, the Office of the Coordinator-General has continually adapted to Queensland’s evolving needs. We play a vital role in Queensland’s economic development, empowered by the State Development and Public Works Organisation Act 1971 (SDPWO Act).

We plan, deliver and coordinate large-scale projects, while ensuring environmental impacts are properly managed. These projects are fundamental to ensuring that Queensland is growing. The Office of the Coordinator-General is supporting projects that enhance our already great communities and support our incredible lifestyle.

We’re a facilitator, more than just a regulator, acting as a delivery partner who enables, innovates and collaborates to drive outcomes. Through proactive planning, strategic foresight and cross-sector engagement, the Office of the Coordinator-General helps ensure that infrastructure investments deliver lasting economic, social and environmental benefits.

Key projects delivering for Queensland

We’ve overseen many projects that showcase our success in shaping the state.

Our involvement resulted in the:

  • University of Queensland’s rapid expansion, with coordination of works including Women’s College, JJ Stable Memorial Tree Theatre, Biological Sciences Building and road infrastructure
  • development of Griffith University’s buildings and grounds, representing a milestone in educational infrastructure
  • delivery of essential healthcare infrastructure, such as the Mater Hospital and Queensland Children’s Hospital, which required strategic land resumptions and development approvals
  • Suncorp Stadium redevelopment, showcasing urban renewal and sport-led infrastructure investment
  • Brisbane Airport land acquisitions for road, rail and drainage.

Enabling Queensland’s growth

We operate under one of the most wide-ranging mandates in Australian public administration. The Coordinator-General is responsible for the proper planning, preparation, execution, coordination, control and enforcement of a program of works and developments. This includes environmental coordination, stakeholder engagement and working across governments to expedite approvals.

The Office of the Coordinator-General is a champion of change. We’re planning ahead to deliver economic, social and environmental benefits. We’re also helping Queensland respond to challenges like climate change, regional economic shifts and global investment trends.

The Office of the Coordinator-General plays a leading role in delivering the infrastructure that powers Queensland’s regions. We’re supporting projects across the state – from renewable energy and agriculture, to mining, transport, and regional development. These projects have a far-reaching impact, from the north-west and central regions to the south-west and coastal corridors.

Working in partnership

Our success is grounded in partnership. By working with industry, government and communities, the Office of the Coordinator-General can accelerate the growth of thriving, connected communities.

Our strong stakeholder relationships ensure that Australian, state and local government agencies are engaged early and effectively. This resolves key issues and streamlines approval pathways, to keep momentum high.

Our collaborative approach helps empower others to make timely decisions. It ensures that the Coordinator-General’s broad powers are exercised with a bias for action and a clear understanding of community expectations.

Delivering with purpose

At its core, the Office of the Coordinator-General is driven by a vision of a better Queensland, a place where economic opportunity is inclusive, sustainable, and future-focused. Our vision includes a strong commitment to engaging with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. We do this through culturally appropriate consultation and decision-making processes that respect and protect culture, while enabling economic participation.

Internally, the Office of the Coordinator-General is defined by its engaged and empowered team. Our people feel valued and supported and bring energy and purpose to the work of shaping Queensland’s future.

Stakeholders have consistently identified the importance of clarity in the Coordinator-General’s role and capabilities. We’ve responded with transparent communication, high standards of service and a drive for continuous improvement.

Facilitating the future

As Queensland continues to grow, the role of the Office of the Coordinator-General remains more important than ever. By making things possible for a better Queensland, we’re ensuring that the infrastructure, industries, and communities of tomorrow are being built today.

Read more about our history.