Have your say on tomorrow’s Brisbane

Brisbane residents can have their say on the new City of Brisbane Bill which was released for public comment today, Local Government Minister Desley Boyle said today.

“The Bill will cut through red tape and give Brisbane City Council the flexibility needed to deliver modern services in a world-class city,” Ms Boyle said today.

"The original City of Brisbane Act amalgamated two cities, ten towns and thirteen shires into the City of Brisbane when it was passed in 1924.

"This new Bill will ensure Brisbane's legislative framework is in tune with the 21st century.

"I encourage residents and other stakeholders to check out the proposed legislation for the Brisbane of tomorrow at www.dip.qld.gov.au/local-government/local-government-legislation-review.html.

“It is important that residents have their say on how their council operates.

"Submissions on the consultation draft close on Monday March 1."

The new Bill was another plank in the Bligh Government’s local government reform program, Ms Boyle said.

“We are committed to building the strongest local government sector in Queensland and part of that commitment means ensuring we have the best legislation,” she said.

“The new City of Brisbane Bill, like the new Local Government Act 2009, is part of a comprehensive review of local government legislation.”

Ms Boyle said the Bligh Government would continue to work closely with the Lord Mayor and councillors.

"We have consulted extensively including with the Lord Mayor and councillors throughout the development of the Bill and this consultation will continue throughout the review and drafting process,” she said.

"The new Bill will replace the City of Brisbane Act 1924, City of Brisbane Regulation 2004, Brisbane City Council Business and Procedures Act 1939, the Local Government (China Town and Valley Malls) Act 1984 and the Local Government (Queen Street Mall) Act 1981," she said.

Media contact: Minister Boyle's office on 3227 8819