By Dominique Tassell
Divisions will not be pursued in time for the next election, with Southern Downs Regional Council citing the “extensive community consultation” required as a factor in the decision.
A Council spokesperson stated that “Council has had a discussion on the issue of introducing divisions for the Southern Downs local government area”.
“Council has decided informally to defer this matter until after the 2024 local government quadrennial elections due to the complexity and timeframes involved in proposing a change of this nature.”
Southern Downs Mayor Vic Pennisi stated that after reviewing the process and the time it would take, Council was advised it would not be achievable to pursue divisions in time for the next election.
He stated that Chief Executive Dave Burges reported some complexities to Council that meant there was “no way we could do it in time”.
Divisions have been mentioned at the majority of Connecting with Council meetings in the last year, with locals in smaller communities vocal about their perceived lack of representation.
Earlier this year, Mayor Pennisi committed to engaging with residents of the region’s villages to survey and consult with them about divisions.
Mr Burges also stated earlier this year that the deadline to apply for divisions is 12 months out from the March 2024 election, meaning March 2023.
It has not been confirmed what the “complexities” are that mean divisions are no longer viable, though the Council spokesperson stated that “extensive community consultation is required when developing a change proposal”.
“As a guide, the consultation for the introduction of divisions should provide evidence of engagement and support of at least 20 per cent of the affected community.”
“If the council elected in 2024 decides to progress the matter, the aim would be to undertake the community consultation and prepare a proposal for change for submission to the Minister before the end of calendar year 2026 to allow sufficient time for the independent Change Commission to decide the matter prior to the 2028 local government quadrennial elections.”
