IF Queensland charged the real cost of growth it would quickly slow from present levels that were threatening south-east Queensland's lifestyle.
Local Government of Queensland executive director Greg Hallam said it was clear from the level of the state's debt that growth was not paying its way.
"The minute you apply the appropriate pricing, growth would slow," Mr Hallam said.
"There is a big gap between what the government pretends it can provide and what it actually can. It's clear that either new taxes, user charges or demand management, or a combination of these measures is needed if the wonderful south-east Queensland lifestyle isn't to be eroded further.
"Unless more money is channelled into roads and public transport, (then)congestion, pollution and productivity will get progressively worse."
The impact of New Zealand immigration on population growth in Australia was so great that within five years there would be more Kiwis here than on the South Island.
Mr Hallam said the LGAQ had thought there was more the Federal Government could do about slowing immigration, which was dominated by the open door policy with New Zealand and the 457 visa applicants.
Mr Hallam has urged residents to make submissions to the association's interim report on the Need for a State Population Policy.
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