Council is seeking community feedback on a proposal to reduce the number of Councillors from 10 to 8 divisional Councillors plus the Mayor.

At present the Bundaberg Regional Local Government Area is represented by 10 divisional Councillors plus the Mayor.

Why?

This proposed change would save ratepayers $265,000 per year or $1,060,000 per four-year term.

How?

Step 1: Community consultation – We’ll spend several months listening and seeking as much feedback as possible.

Step 2: Review – If the community is supportive, Council would formally resolve to make a request to the State Government.

Step 3: State Government decision – If endorsed, the proposal would be submitted to the Minister and decided by the Change Commission.
Section 17(2)(c) of the Local Government Act 2009 (the Act) allows for a change to the number of Councillors for a local government or divisions of a local government area however section 18 of the Act provides that the Minister of Local Government is the only person who may propose a local government change to the change commission.

Step 4: Implementation – If successful, the Electoral Commission would redraw the electoral boundaries in readiness for the 2028 Local Government election.

Key Facts

• Based on current population, the change would mean approximately 13,000 residents per Councillor, currently this number is around 10,500.
• There are other Local Governments with less than 10 elected representatives, including Ipswich City Council, Cairns Regional Council and Rockhampton Regional Council.

Council is seeking your views and input on this potential change before Council considers making a submission to the Minister for Local Government.

For more information email ceo@bundaberg.qld.gov.au, attention: Governance and Executive Services or call 1300 883 699.

Survey submissions will close at 5.00 pm AEST on Friday 30 May 2025