Our solution

Councils are already planting trees, and that’s an important and valued start.

For example, in 2025, Townsville City Council planted almost 1,600 street trees across suburbs including Currajong, Douglas, Pimlico, Wulguru, Kelso, and Belgian Gardens as part of its Street Tree Planting Program. These efforts play an important role in cooling suburbs and improving liveability.

But to truly cool our cities in North Queensland and plan for the future, we need a coordinated, long-term approach.

Our ask:
Adopt and fund comprehensive Greening Strategies by 2028.
Within two years, we want to see at least three North Queensland councils adopt Greening Strategies that:

• improve shade and liveability
• support biodiversity
• address climate and equity
  
  

These strategies should include:

• cooler public spaces with shade in parks, playgrounds, and walking routes
• greener neighbourhoods guided by principles like the 3-30-300 rule and urban design that responds to local climate conditions
• stronger ecosystems through wildlife corridors and habitat restoration
• nature-based solutions such as urban forests, wetlands, and coastal protection to build climate resilience
• prioritising the hottest and most vulnerable areas
• clear targets and public reporting so progress is visible and accountable
• widespread education for locals about what to plant in the Dry Tropics (including the most cyclone-resilient trees!)

READ MORE ABOUT WHY THIS MATTERS

Help shape the solution

We want more shade, more space for nature, and healthier communities. But we need your voice to make it happen!

By endorsing this campaign below, you will: 

• stay updated
• be invited to local actions
• help build momentum for change
  
  
  

Share with us in the comment section:

• Why would you like to see a Greening Strategy for North Queensland?
• What would make your neighbourhood cooler and more liveable?
• What are hot spots in your community that need changing?