News
12 September, 2025
Country councils in control
SOMERSET Regional Council will gain a stronger voice within State Government through the renewed Rural and Remote Councils Compact.
Updated last month, the agreement aims to enhance the long-term sustainability and capability of rural and remote councils across Queensland, including Somerset.
The Compact recognises the unique challenges faced by 45 rural and remote councils in delivering essential services and supporting liveable communities. Its key principles include:
Consultation: Ensuring country councils have input on new rules, plans, and laws to meet local needs.
Funding: Providing steady, long-term financial support so councils can plan and deliver services effectively.
Skills and Management: Assisting councils with program and project management to ensure quality service delivery and accountability.
Collaboration: Maximising the impact of funding from all levels of government.
Transparency and Accountability: Ensuring government departments consider the impacts of decisions on rural councils.
The Compact will be overseen by five Rural and Remote Regions Policy Executive Members, known as the Guardians. A special committee will meet every three months and at least once a year in a country town to ensure the Compact is implemented.
Between 2024 and 2028, the Compact will focus on three main issues: financial stability, roads, and housing/community liveability. Blackall-Tambo Mayor Andrew “Marto” Martin, chair of the Guardians, said the agreement ensures rural and remote communities have a clear voice directly engaging with government to prevent unintended consequences.
Minister for Local Government and Water, Ann Leahy, noted the renewed agreement strengthens the partnership with councils, recognising their unique challenges and helping them deliver better outcomes for their communities. LGAQ President Matt Burnett said the Compact reinforces rural and remote voices, essential in Queensland, Australia’s most decentralised mainland state.
