Bundaberg Regional Council has approved an infrastructure charges discount under its Projects of Regional Significance (PORS) scheme for a major macadamia processing facility.
To be located at 1780 Bucca Road, the facility is proposed by Australian Premium Macadamias Pty Ltd and represents a significant investment in the region’s agricultural and industrial sectors.
At a recent Ordinary Meeting, Council reviewed plans of the development, which is expected to create jobs, support local growers, and strengthen the Wide Bay region’s macadamia industry.
The project, valued at over $15 million, will be delivered in two stages.
Stage 1, operational by 2025, will include a 2,712 square metre facility for cleaning, drying, sorting, and packing macadamia nuts.
Stage 2, to be completed by 2026, will expand the facility with an additional 2,640 square metres of space.
The seasonal operation, running primarily from March to September, will operate 24 hours a day during peak periods, employing up to 18 staff daily across three shifts once fully operational.
Mayor Helen Blackburn said the project highlighted the benefits of Council’s Projects of Regional Significance scheme in supporting transformative local developments.
“This facility is an excellent example of how Council’s PORS program can support projects that not only strengthen our regional economy but also provide long-term benefits,” she said.
“Australian Premium Macadamias’ investment will generate local jobs, support our agricultural producers, and further cement Bundaberg’s reputation as a leader in the macadamia industry.”
The facility will process approximately 9,800 tonnes of macadamia nuts annually.
Under the PORS scheme, the project qualifies for a 50% discount on applicable infrastructure charges, provided development is completed by 30 September 2027.
The Projects of Regional Significance program supports developments valued at $15 million or more or those creating at least 50 direct local jobs, with further consideration given to projects that offer unique community benefits.
Previous beneficiaries include Gina’s Table and the expansion of Okara’s operations at the Port.
