Details
Last Updated: Wednesday, 14 May 2025 11:11
Published: Wednesday, 14 May 2025 11:00

Toowoomba Regional Council (TRC) has appointed highly regarded local government leader Ed Johnson to the role of General Manager Planning and Development.

TRC Interim Chief Executive Officer Colin Jensen said Mr Johnson was well placed to utilise his expertise to support the region’s ongoing prosperity, environmental stewardship and liveability as it navigates future growth opportunities.

“Ed brings extensive leadership experience in urban planning, regional development, and sustainability, most recently serving as the Director of Planning, Growth and Sustainability at Cairns Regional Council.

“With a strong background in strategic land use planning, development assessment, infrastructure coordination, and environmental resilience, Ed is known for driving innovation and collaboration across all levels of government and community,” Mr Jensen said.

“Having worked in leadership roles within the public and private sector over many years, he brings well rounded perspectives to challenges faced within the industry.

“Throughout his career, Ed has consistently demonstrated a commitment to community engagement, evidence-based policy, and integrated planning approaches,” he said.

“I thank and acknowledge outgoing Acting General Manager Planning and Development Kari Musgrove for her stewardship of the Planning and Development Group during the past few months and wish her all the best for the future.”

During his time at Cairns Regional Council, Mr Johnson has led a number of transformative initiatives, including:

  • Delivery of the Draft Shaping Cairns Growth Strategy, setting a bold vision for sustainable regional growth in Far North Queensland.
  • Implementation of an award-winning Climate Change Strategy, positioning Cairns as a national leader in climate resilience.
  • Modernisation of the Planning Scheme, improving transparency, simplifying processes, and enabling smart growth aligned with community values.
  • Development of key partnerships with the Queensland Government, developers, consultants and regional industry stakeholders to support integrated planning and economic development.
  • Oversight of major infrastructure planning projects, ensuring alignment with long-term land use strategies and growth corridors.

Mr Johnson will begin in the role of General Manager Planning and Development on Monday, 30 June, 2025.