If Queensland wants to recover strongly from COVID-19 as well as unlock the state's economic potential, a healthy western Queensland economy is the key, according to the 21 mayors of the Western Queensland Alliance of Councils.
In launching its election platform on Monday, the WQAC, which represents councils from the NSW border to the Gulf of Carpentaria, called on all candidates to commit to investing in the west in order to sustain existing jobs and create new ones.
The message was emphasised by the chairman of the Remote Area Planning and Development Board, Tony Rayner, who said western Queensland pumped $9.35 billion into the state's economy annually.
That was providing an important lifeline to the state at this critical time, he said.
"Our election platform highlights the common issues across our 21 councils, most notably, funding for roads, digital connectivity and housing.
"In doing so, we are conscious of the critical role that western Queensland and its key industries can play in helping the whole of Queensland to recover from the impacts of COVID-19.
"With investment and ongoing commitment we will open up many opportunities, not just in our traditional industries of mining, agriculture and fishing, but also in emerging industries of renewable energies, new economy minerals, technology, and tourism."
South West Local Government Association chairwoman Samantha O'Toole made a similar point, saying current data was indicating the region's key industries of agriculture and resources were outperforming the rest of the nation.
"Imagine if we had strategic and long term commitments to invest in our infrastructure and local industries - it would drive productivity, economic growth and workforce participation - which has never been so important," Cr O'Toole said.
The decision to 'hunt in a pack' and form the 21-member alliance was formalised in Longreach at the end of July, in order to ramp up representation and advocacy in the lead-up to the October 31 election.
WQAC is an amalgamation of RAPAD, the SWLGA and the North West Regional Organisation of Councils.
NWROC chairman Jack Bawden said the WQAC election platform wasn't just about asking for dollars but 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," he said.
"For this reason, our election 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.
"We look forward to working with the parties and individual candidates contesting the 2020 state election and sharing with our communities how each will commit to make western Queensland, and in turn, the state, even stronger."
Major party responses will be conveyed via the WQAC website.
Sally Gall
Based at Blackall, CW Qld, where I've raised a family, run Merino sheep and beef cattle, and helped develop a region - its history, tourism, education and communications. Get in touch at 0427 575 955 if you've got a story idea for me.
Based at Blackall, CW Qld, where I've raised a family, run Merino sheep and beef cattle, and helped develop a region - its history, tourism, education and communications. Get in touch at 0427 575 955 if you've got a story idea for me.
