CANDIDATE COMMITMENTS MISSING THE MARK IN SUPPORTING SOUTH WEST QUEENSLAND
2020 QUEENSLAND STATE ELECTION
The leaders from across the six councils of South West Queensland have wound up their 2020 State Election campaign and released their assessment of the candidates in a 2020 State Election Candidate Scorecard.
The South West Queensland Regional Organisation of Councils (SWQROC) wrote to the major parties contesting the election seeking a response on the priorities outlined in its 2020 State Election Strategy – The Cornerstone of Opportunities.
SWQROC Chair, Cr Samantha O’Toole said the region stepped out from its corner to call on candidates from across Government, Opposition and Cross Bench to deliver for communities in the South West.
“As part of our Election Strategy we outlined a clear plan to unlock the ample opportunities to help our communities and those beyond our borders through sustainable economic growth, industry diversification and more jobs for Queenslanders,” Cr O’Toole said.
“Queensland Labor and the Liberal National Party each responded and our assessment of their response has formed the basis of our scorecard”.
“In the lead up to the election we were pleased to welcome announcements and broader commitments from candidates that align with some of our priorities – most notably funding for roads, exclusion fencing and the opportunity to fund the business case for the much needed Cat Scan service in Charleville. However, when it came to the strategic, region-shaping leadership and investment that we desperately need, we were left disappointed”.
“We know that regional Queensland has been keeping the State going during this critical time. We were hopeful of a similar measure of commitment in return for those of us who have been working so hard to keep delivering for the State”.
Deputy SWQROC Chair Cr Shaun Radnedge said there were many positives to come out of SWQROC’s 2020 campaign with the region in a better position to advocate and direct the political spotlight than ever before.
“Our Election Strategy and the formation of the ROC have been a significant milestone for our region this year. What we have achieved has established a strong foundation and put SWQROC and its six councils in a positive position for the future,” Cr Radnedge said.
“The Scorecard isn’t just a short-term political tactic – it is a snapshot of the major parties’ commitments and accountability to South West Queensland now, and into the future. Whichever Party wins Government on Saturday, we’ll be sure to remind them of their commitments to the South West and importantly what more they can deliver”.
“We look forward to working with the next Queensland Government to make our region, and in turn, the State, even stronger. With the right investment in South West Queensland there will be a strong return - this region really is the Cornerstone of Opportunities.”
The SWQROC represents the six shires of Balonne, Bulloo, Paroo, Quilpie, Maranoa and Murweh headed by its Chair, Balonne Shire Mayor, Cr Samantha O’Toole, and Deputy Chair, Murweh Shire Mayor Cr Shaun Radnedge.
For more information and to download the Election Platform visit.
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Media contact: Simone Talbot | 0427 990 201 simone.talbot@swqroc.com.au