Letter confirms boundary change is against government policy

Livingstone Shire Mayor Andy Ireland says he’s perplexed at the Queensland Government’s decision to proceed with the northern suburbs boundary review, given it is contrary to government policy.

People enrolled to vote in Livingstone and Rockhampton are currently being mailed a voluntary survey by the Local Government Change Commission to ask whether they support Glenlee, Glendale and Rockyview being transferred to Rockhampton Regional Council. 

Mayor Andy Ireland has today publicly released a letter from the then Minister for Local Government in August 2020, which outlines the government’s policy.

“The letter clearly states: ‘The Queensland Government’s policy for significant Local Government boundary changes requires that the affected Local Governments support the change and that the affected communities also support the proposed change’,” Mayor Ireland said. 

“Livingstone Shire Council is vehemently against this ridiculous proposal and has made this extremely clear to the State Government on many occasions. 

“Therefore, to allow a boundary change is contrary to the government’s own policy and will put significant financial stress onto our residents if it were to be approved. The Queensland Treasury Corporation’s own figures show that our ratepayers will be $161-$250 worse off if this boundary change goes ahead. 

“Rockhampton’s attempt to tear Glenlee, Glendale and Rockyview from Livingstone compromises the financial sustainability of our Shire and the State Government should not be entertaining the proposal.”

Visit Get Involved and click on 'documents' to view the letter: https://getinvolved.livingstone.qld.gov.au/leave-livingstone-alone