DIVISION 7 UPDATE
Cr Rowanne McKenzie: Capalaba | Alexandra Hills | Thornlands | Cleveland
THE Local Government Association of Queensland estimates councils are now absorbing a $360 million annual cost-shifting burden – a dramatic increase over the past two decades
At the same time, federal Financial Assistance Grants to local government have more than halved, disaster recovery support has fallen by 14 per cent in Queensland, and the State Government’s waste levy offset continues to shrink.
This means ratepayers are paying more to manage household waste and maintain essential services.
Councils are expected to maintain local roads, parks, playgrounds and conservation areas; provide sporting facilities, libraries, arts and cultural programs; manage biosecurity and disasters; support housing growth; and deliver footpaths, cycleways, water and wastewater infrastructure – all while trying to keep rates affordable
Residents are also increasingly turning to councils to fund community safety measures. They already pay State taxes for policing, yet councils are expected to contribute to traffic-calming infrastructure and CCTV.
Managing and responding to illegal activity is a core police responsibility. Ratepayers should not have to pay again through their council rates to fill State gaps.
Council supports safer communities through better lighting and Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design strategies, but it should not be treated as a substitute funding source.
That is why I worked with officers to bring a motion to the LGAQ conference seeking fairer financial and leasing arrangements between the State and local governments.
Under the Local Government Act 2009, State Government land used for purposes including hospitals, schools and other public services is exempt from council rates.
Meanwhile, Redland residents pay more than $650,000 a year to lease State Government land and infrastructure used for public purposes. Ratepayers also fund the management and maintenance of State-owned conservation areas and State school car parks.
Charities and not-for-profit organisations can secure peppercorn leases – often for just $1 a year – from the State Government for community purposes.
Addressing these unfair arrangements, cost shifting and funding reductions is not just a financial argument; it is a liveability issue.
Every dollar spent covering another level of government’s responsibility is a dollar unavailable for local priorities.
Council is a willing partner, but genuine partnership must come with fair funding.
