Each region joined QWRAP at a different time, developing targeted arrangements based on local needs. For each, collaboration ‘maturity’ is assessed based on the type of joint initiatives successfully undertaken compared with a QWRAP schema called the Collaboration Maturity Model. For example, joint infrastructure planning and investment entails significant cooperation and demonstrates high maturity (level 7). The model is designed to reflect stages of regionalisation found in other jurisdictions. QWRAP’s intent is for regions’ collaboration maturity to increase over time.
Seed-funding provided by the Department of Regional Development, Manufacturing and Water is available through a contested ‘bid pool’ prioritised for projects demonstrating higher levels of maturity. The evolving maturity of QWRAP regions has accelerated in the current round of Queensland Government funding which commenced in 2018.
