Mayors from across Western Queensland are delivering a message for candidates ahead of the state election - it's time to invest in the west to unlock the economic potential of Queensland.
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The newly formed Western Queensland Alliance of Councils launched its election platform Monday and will call on candidates to commit to 'invest in the west' to create jobs and support economic growth as Queensland grapples with the impacts of COVID-19.
The 21 councils of WQAC brings together the North West Queensland Regional Organisation of Councils, the Remote Area Planning and Development Board and the South West Local Government Association and NWROC Chair and Carpentaria Mayor Jack Bawden said the election platform wasn't just about asking for dollars but was also about delivering for all of Queensland through a strategic approach underpinned by local knowledge and know-how.
"We realise that budget restoration will become a key focus and priority for governments at all levels as we collectively move forward," Cr Bawden said.
"For this reason, our platform also focuses on the policy and program settings that will be most beneficial in delivering long term outcomes for the communities of Western Queensland.
Cr Bawden said they would be talking to candidates about the platform as well as their communities.
"We know that if you invest in the West - it pays dividends," he said.
The platform calls on strategic and long term commitments to invest in infrastructure and local industries with the region already putting $9.35 billion into the economy annually and calls for funding for roads, digital connectivity and housing.
The platform is on the WQAC website.
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Derek Barry
Editor of the North West Star Mount Isa since January 2016. Prior to that, an editor at several regional southern Queensland newspapers. Passionate about telling local stories. Comes with a strange accent to due an Irish accident of birth.
Editor of the North West Star Mount Isa since January 2016. Prior to that, an editor at several regional southern Queensland newspapers. Passionate about telling local stories. Comes with a strange accent to due an Irish accident of birth.
