General News
27 August, 2025
Western Queensland councils a united force
Representatives from the North West, Central West and South West gathered in St George last week.
Walking the talk in St George last week as part of the Western Queensland Alliance of Councils Assembly, Deputy Premier Jarrod Bleijie announced key funding that will boost regional housing solutions and economic development initiatives in the bush.
McKinlay Shire mayor Janene Fegan, who is also the deputy chair of the North West Queensland Regional Organisation of Councils, said: “Western Queensland councils welcome the renewed commitment to genuine engagement with regional, rural and remote councils.
“The funding announcements today and ongoing suite of policy and regulatory reforms sends a clear message that regional voices are being heard.
“This is the kind of collaborative partnership between levels of government that delivers tangible outcomes for communities like ours – ensuring that decisions affecting us are made without delay or red tape.”
The Deputy Premier also announced the state government would continue to support, as well as increase funding to Queensland’s Remote Areas Boards (RABs).
“This investment directly empowers our remote communities to lead locally driven projects – from employment, skills development, to economic diversification – that may otherwise struggle to attract support,” said Tony Rayner, mayor of Longreach and chair of RAPAD.
“It’s practical, strategic, and essential for the future of Western Queensland.”