Toowoomba Regional Council

The Queensland Government will work with the mayors, councillors and residents of the eight local councils to combine to form the new Toowoomba Regional Council to secure the region’s future growth and prosperity, Attorney-General and Member for Toowoomba North Kerry Shine said today.

The Local Government Reform Commission has recommended that the existing local governments of Toowoomba City, Cambooya, Clifton, Jondaryan, Millmerran, Pittsworth, Crows Nest and Rosalie shires be abolished and form a combined local government, called Toowoomba Regional Council. The recommendation, and all others made by the Commission, has been accepted by the Queensland Government.

Mr Shine said while he was disappointed that the proposal to amalgamate Rosalie and Crows Nest shires had not been supported by the Commission, he accepted the rationale of the Toowoomba Regional Council proposal.

"I know a number of people will be disappointed with this decision, but it is now in the best interests of the region that we work constructively together to make the Toowoomba Regional Council work, and make it work for us all," Mr Shine said.

"The Toowoomba Regional Council will be able to manage growth in the region, and provide a strong basis for promoting economic development opportunities."

"I am determined to work with all involved to ensure the Toowoomba Regional Council works well. We have a very important region, and we can work hard together to achieve future growth and prosperity."

"Significantly, the combined Council recognised that Toowoomba is the regional centre for the Downs. It is an important transport, social and economic hub for the region."

"It is important that local governments are viable and sustainable for the future. The Toowoomba and Darling Downs region does have a positive future, and local government will play a vital role in that future."

27 July 2007
Media contact: Kirby Anderson 3239 6400 or 0418 197 350
kirby.anderson@ministerial.qld.gov.au