Reaction speaks volumes: Fraser

18 May 2007

Reaction speaks volumes: Fraser

The Local Government Association of Queensland has today shown its true colours with its reaction to the State Government’s release of the list of Queensland councils deemed “weak”, “very weak” or “distressed”, Local Government and Planning Minister Andrew Fraser said.

Mr Fraser said the LGAQ reaction – with claims the government had breached confidentiality – was not only totally misleading and without foundation but proved voluntary reform of Queensland’s councils was highly unlikely to occur.

“That’s why the Beattie Government stepped in and has taken the leadership on the reform of local government throughout the state,” Mr Fraser said.

“The reaction today speaks volumes – local government itself would never have released the financial details of councils and would have preferred to sweep the issue under the carpet.

“It’s imperative ratepayers are given a clear picture of the financial situations of their councils and that is what the government has done today – releasing a list which gives Queenslanders a crystal clear picture of the situation.

“I would implore councils throughout the state to now take it a step further and release the actual contents of their individual reports by posting them on their websites for every ratepayer to study.

“There is simply no point in putting your head in the sand.”

Mr Fraser said the information on the list released today was compiled using details provided by councils through the former voluntary review process, Size Shape and Sustainability, immediately before the government’s local government reform announcement on April 17.

He rejected outright that the data was in any way incorrect as alleged by the LGAQ.

“Since the list was compiled there have been revisions and further council assessments have been completed as a result of further information from councils.

“But this does not change the fact that over 40 per cent of councils are in worrying or dire financial circumstances.”

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