Western Queensland councils unite to tackle region's top issues at Assembly

Statement from Western Queensland Alliance of Councils:

Medical supplies, health workers and essential equipment are amongst the long list of critical services that are potentially now out of reach for remote and regional communities in Western Queensland with Regional Express (Rex) suspending all services across the State indefinitely.

Mayors from across Western Queensland have expressed their disappointment in Rex’s decision and have called on the Queensland Government to deliver a solution as a matter of urgency.

“The issues are complex and it’s going to require all levels of government, the banking and finance sector as well as the building and construction industry to pull together on this one. ”

Mayor Jack Bawden, NWQROC Chair said:
“We’re looking forward to hosting the 2021 WQAC Assembly up here in the North West following the positive response and actions from last year’s inaugural event in Longreach. It’s no small achievement to have 22 councils in agreement on common issues across two thirds of the state, most notably our priorities of funding for roads, digital connectivity and housing. The Assembly is a keyway we can supercharge our advocacy for Western Queensland and work with all levels of government and our communities.”

Mayor Tony Rayner, RAPAD Chair said:
“Keeping up the momentum to tackle the region’s issues and open up opportunities has continued to be our focus in 2021. Western Queensland punches well above its weight in terms of its contribution to the economy and my mayoral and councillor colleagues are ready to make sure that continues. Only by working together towards solutions for major issues like housing, can we truly unlock the amazing opportunities in Western Queensland. The Housing Market Study is another proactive step from the WQAC that will focus on one of the west’s major challenges and includes extensive engagement across Western Queensland.”

Mayor Samantha O’Toole, Chair SWQROC said:
“We’re hearing lots of public debate about individuals, families and businesses wanting to re-locate to our regions on the back of the COVID-19 pandemic – which is something we very much welcome. Unfortunately, we can’t capitalise on this opportunity as the lack of adequate and affordable housing is creating a real barrier to attracting and retaining people in our local communities. The issues are complex and it’s going to require all levels of government, the banking and finance sector as well as the building and construction industry to pull together on this one. And, if we can find real solutions, the long- term potential will be huge – as we’ve always said, if you invest in the west, it pays dividends!”

In addition to housing the Assembly’s program will include keynote speeches and panel sessions addressing the issues of regionalisation, road network planning and investment, digital connectivity, financial capacity and capability, regional air services, and resilience and sustainable recovery.

See www.wqac.com.au/Housing-Market-Study for Housing Market Study - Project Description.