Minister locks in election date

Queenslanders in four de-amalgamating council areas will go to the polls on 9 November to choose who will represent them when their new councils start work next year.

Local Government Minister David Crisafulli said people in Noosa, Livingstone, Mareeba and Douglas had a historic opportunity to decide who would be the foundation leaders of their communities from 1 January 2014.

“People in each of the four areas sent a clear message that they wanted their local council back and it’s their responsibility to choose who will best lead their communities into the future,” Mr Crisafulli said.

“While the process of splitting the councils is going well, it’s vital the newly elected councillors are ready to serve their community from day one.

“I think this date strikes the right balance between having the mechanics of de-amalgamation in place and having enough lead time for the new council to hit the ground running.”

Mr Crisafulli urged locals to put their names forward and nominate to serve on the new council.

“As a former councillor, nothing gives me greater pleasure than to see local people from all walks of life standing up to make a difference for their communities,” he said.

“I encourage people to step up and share their vision as to how a new council can best serve their local area in the years to come.”

Current councillors will continue to serve in their existing roles and will start work with the newly elected councillors on 1 January 2014.

The Transfer Managers in Noosa, Livingstone, Mareeba and Douglas will continue to work in the best interests of the de-amalgamating area until the new council officially comes into being.

Residents will be required to register their vote in person on election day.

Details on pre-poll, postal vote and booth locations will be released by the Electoral Commission of Queensland.

[ENDS] 17 September 2013

Media Contact: Andrew Longmire 0418 216 627