Local Government Reform Legislation to Protect Ratepayers

7 August 2007

Local Government Reform Legislation to Protect Ratepayers

Historic legislation to better Queensland’s century-plus local government system was introduced to State Parliament today.

The Local Government Reform Legislation Bill 2007 facilitates the major reform agenda needed to provide certainty to communities prior to local government elections in March 2008.

Local Government Minister Andrew Fraser said the Bill aims to make the transition towards council partnership as smooth as possible.

“Already we’ve announced a job security package to protect local government staff except CEOs for three years, the formation of an independent tribunal to set mayoral and council salaries and $27.1 million in funding to aid the transition,” he said.

“Yet as I have travelled across the State members of the community have raised concerns that existing councils may abandon important projects that have already been promised.

“There are reports of senior Local Government officials telling ratepayers that, because of amalgamations, projects funded under current budgets will not go ahead.

“The Government won’t allow communities to be left in the lurch by councils that act irresponsibly.

“Residents who pay rates to councils deserve to know that their money is being spent on projects for which that money has been earmarked.

“As part of the Bill failure of existing local government to adequately supply services or facilities during the transition process will be considered a breach of the Act,” Mr Fraser said.

“In other words, road projects, drainage projects, facility upgrades, park or green space projects must all be carried out as normal during the transition process so communities will not be disadvantaged.”

Mr Fraser said that under the legislation intervention powers could be used to stop councils involved in the transition process from inappropriately spending ratepayer’s money.

“This is all about building stronger councils for a growing Queensland,” he said.

“The majority of councils are working constructively to deliver for their communities, however, we will not allow councils to waste ratepayer’s money during the all-important transition period.”

Media Contact: Chris Ward 0418 424 654