Labor leader Anthony Albanese has revealed Gladstone Mayor Matt Burnett will be the party's candidate for the federal seat of Flynn next general election.
On his first tour through Gladstone, Mr Albanese said Cr Burnett would be a "champion" for the region.
"Matt Burnett will deliver for the entire region of Flynn, not just here in Gladstone, but in Emerald, in Biloela, and throughout the region," Mr Albanese said.
LNP minister Ken O'Dowd has held the seat for more than a decade but has announced he will not be running for reelection.
The LNP hold a 8.66 per cent point margin - after a 7.32 per cent swing to the party in the 2019 election.
Mr Albanese believes Cr Burnett has the reputation with community to reverse the damage caused to the opposition last election.
"Through his work as a local councillor and Gladstone Mayor, Matt has spent the past 20 years securing more jobs and more opportunities for Central Queensland," Mr Albanese said.
Cr Burnett revealed he has been in conversation with the Labor leader for months and believes the seat is winnable for the opposition.
"I wouldn't have put my hand up if I didn't think there was a chance to win Flynn back," CR Burnett said.
"And not just a chance, a real chance under the leadership of Anthony Albanese."
Cr Burnett has served in local government since 2000, serving five years as deputy mayor before being elected to the top job in 2016.
Cr Kahn Goodluck is expected take on the role as Acting Mayor during next the election campaign with Cr Burnett taking unpaid leave of absence while campaigning.
