Council calls on Palaszczuk Government to give Livingstone a fair go

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Published
8th July 2022

At the request of the Queensland Government, the Local Change Commission is currently reviewing a proposal to transfer the northern suburbs of Glenlee, Glendale and Rockyview from Livingstone to Rockhampton Regional Council (RRC).

Deputy Mayor Adam Belot presented a notice of motion at a Special Council Meeting this morning calling for a commitment to fairness.

“Council today resolved to call on the Deputy Premier Steven Miles, Queensland Treasurer Cameron Dick and Member for Keppel Brittany Lauga to confirm the Palaszczuk Government’s commitment to fairness in the boundary review between Livingstone and Rockhampton by ensuring our residents will not go backwards financially in any outcome related to this process,” Cr Belot said.

“We are also calling on the Deputy Premier to confirm the origin and basis for the ‘agreement’ of both Livingstone and Rockhampton to embark on the current boundary review process – as our records only show agreement to the Terms of Reference for the review.

“Rockhampton Regional Council claims that transferring the three suburbs is fairer for all, and that may be right for the balance of RRC residents. However, it’s certainly not fair for the majority of Livingstone ratepayers, who under the Queensland Treasury Corporation’s own figures, would be out of pocket up to $250 per year if the move goes ahead.

“It’s not fair Deputy Premier, not fair Premier Palaszczuk, simply not fair Member for Keppel!

“The Queensland Government must ensure this boundary review is fair. Whatever the outcome, the Livingstone community deserves a genuine, fair go.

“Despite our share of social, environmental, and economic challenges including the costs of deamalgamation and multiple natural disasters, we continue to prove what a resilient community we are, and the best is yet to come.

“Our Shire is fast becoming one of the most desirable locations in Queensland with our relaxed, outdoor lifestyle. A collaborative relationship with our neighbours is critical to plan for the growth that is surging toward us.”

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