In October, most North Burnett Regional Council councillors attended the 128th annual conference of the Local Government Association of Queensland (LGAQ). The LGAQ is the peak industry body for Queensland local government, and the annual conference provides the opportunity for councils across the state to come together and discuss motions relevant to the industry. Motions must have a wider industry focus to be accepted as a submission. If a motion passes and is carried, the matter becomes an advocacy priority for the LGAQ on behalf of its members.
The particular significance of this year’s annual conference is that it was held in the week leading up to the recent state election, so it was an opportunity to engage directly with a number of party leaders and Members of Parliament on their plans and our requirements, should they be elected to office.
North Burnett Regional Council submitted four of the 114+ motions raised at this year’s conference. All four of Council’s motions were carried, showcasing the importance of the topics amongst the sectors. Two of these motions seek dedicated funding streams to support continued service delivery in rural and remote local government areas, focusing on pools and waste recycling options, with a third motion seeking diversified and secure untied funding streams to support councils and the communities they represent.
North Burnett Regional Council Mayor, Les Hotz, said, “Preserving liveability is a key focus for our Council – and indeed most councils across the state. Fairer funding is needed to support councils in meeting community needs and expectations – Don’t leave local communities behind.”
“With our recently endorsed Advocacy Plan 2024-2028, we will continue to vigorously pursue a fair deal for our region.”
Council’s fourth motion was also submitted by two other local governments, calling for import restrictions on products containing the PFAS group chemicals. This substance is found in a multitude of products – ranging from makeup to Teflon on saucepans to other substances. It is a forever chemical, unable to be eradicated, can cause harm to humans and animals if present in the water supply, and over time, causes significant damage to treatment infrastructure. Council was pleased to see this motion overwhelmingly supported.
Should the LGAQ’s advocacy efforts succeed, many of the 114+ motions put to the conference will have a positive impact within the North Burnett and across the local government sector.
“I commend all member councils that put forward motions for consideration. The quality is always high, and many have profound relevance to the sector and our communities,” Mayor Hotz added.
Council thanks the LGAQ for their continued support. Many of the challenges the North Burnett faces are also faced by other local governments across the state, and taking a united approach through the LGAQ offers the strongest chance of advocacy success.
“We look forward to working with the LGAQ, the new State government, and the Federal government to address these issues and identify new opportunities, not only for the North Burnett but all local government areas in Queensland,” Mayor Hotz said.
Media Contact
1300 696 272 | media@northburnett.qld.gov.au