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Queensland act
This is a Queensland-specific law that creates a unique legal framework for the development and management of Sanctuary Cove Resort on the Gold Coast — a large, master-planned private resort community.
1. Creates a special planning zone outside normal rules Normally, Queensland's Planning Act (which controls what you can build and where) applies to all land. This Act carves out Sanctuary Cove from those normal rules. Instead of Council's standard planning scheme applying, a special system of approved uses per zone applies. If you use land for something not specifically approved for your zone, you can be fined (up to 20 penalty units).
2. Sets up a unique land ownership and subdivision system The resort is divided into (residential, commercial, etc.). Land can only be subdivided (broken into smaller lots for sale) in specific, controlled ways. There are strict caps on how many residential lots can be created — and .
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Direct links to the current provisions in Sanctuary Cove Resort Act 1985.
Zoe has indexed the source text for search and analysis. Use the official register for the original document and download formats.
View on official registerSourced from Queensland Legislation (legislation.qld.gov.au), CC BY 4.0.
3. Establishes a hierarchy of 'body corporates' The Act creates a multi-layered management structure:
Roads and shared infrastructure are transferred to these body corporates (for free) once built by the developer.
4. Allows the resort boundaries and zones to be changed — but with strict controls Changes to zone uses or boundaries require an application process involving:
5. Locks in the resort's location within Gold Coast City Despite changes to local government boundaries over the years, the Act explicitly keeps Sanctuary Cove within Gold Coast City's jurisdiction.
If you own property at Sanctuary Cove, your rights and obligations are governed by this special Act — not just standard Queensland property or planning law. What you can build, how you can use your land, and how the shared areas around you are managed are all controlled by this legislation and its associated regulations.
If you're considering buying at Sanctuary Cove, be aware that this unique legal framework affects resale, development rights, and community governance in ways that don't apply to ordinary Queensland residential properties.