By Hannah McNamara
Member for Mirani Glen Kelly has thrown his support behind the introduction of divisions within Mackay Regional Council, saying it would give local residents a stronger voice and clearer representation at the table.
Mr Kelly, whose electorate spans from the outskirts of Mackay to Rockhampton, said a common concern raised by his constituents is the lack of clarity around who to approach with local issues.
"While I believe our Mackay Regional councillors are doing a great job serving their communities, many residents have told me they find it unclear who to contact when they want to raise concerns or seek support from their elected representatives," he said.
"Adopting a divisional system would make it easier for residents to know exactly who is responsible for representing their area, providing a clear line of accountability. This is the system used successfully in many of the other council areas within the Mirani electorate, where constituents report having more positive and responsive interactions with their local councils."
Kelly believes divisions provide a valuable point of contact for residents, ensuring their concerns are directly addressed.
“Personally, I believe divisions in councils work very, very well,” he said.
“It’s important to have a face to go to. Someone you can speak to about the issues in your area – because that then gives the opportunity for your voice to be heard.”
He said feedback from constituents in the Mackay portion of his electorate has been “overwhelming.”
“It’s really hitting our office hard. People just want to have their say, and people want representation that understands their patch.”
Mr Kelly pointed to Rockhampton Regional Council as a working example, where councillors represent set divisions and often manage specific portfolios such as roads, water, or the environment.
“Portfolios give councillors a chance to really specialise in certain areas. That way when someone stops them in the street or calls the office, they can give an informed answer. It just works. I’ve seen it.”
While some have questioned the cost of a restructure or argued that unofficial divisions already exist, Mr Kelly said the benefits of clarity and transparency outweigh the concerns.
“Yes, there’s a cost involved, but this gives constituents a clear line to someone who represents their area. Someone who knows their issues and can fight for them.”
He also pushed back against claims that his advocacy is politically motivated.
“This isn’t political. It’s my job. I’ve been elected to stand up for the people of Mirani, and if I didn’t speak up for them on this, I’d be failing them.”
Mr Kelly urged locals to take part in the Mackay Regional Council’s public survey on the matter.
“People deserve the chance to have their say. If they want divisions, we move forward. If not, we put the issue to bed. But it’s their voice that matters.”
The survey, launched following a motion by Councillor Alison Jones, is open until 11.59pm on Sunday, June 1, 2025.
Mr Kelly encouraged all residents to complete it.
"Strong, local representation is vital for effective governance, and this survey is a chance for our communities to make their voices count," he said.
Mackay Regional Councillor Alison Jones said, “ninety per cent of the people that I talk to say they want divisions back… People want to know who represents them, they want that local familiarity - they want someone they can call, and someone who shows up.”
“This is a rare and valuable chance for residents to have their say, so I strongly encourage everyone to take a moment to register and be part of the conversation.”
The survey is open until June 1. A report is due back to the ordinary meeting of council in late June.
Complete the survey on the Connecting Mackay website - https://www.connectingmackay.com.au/have-your-say-on-electoral-divisions.
Should you have any questions about this consultation, or you would like a hard copy survey, please contact council’s Community Engagement team on 1300 MACKAY (622 529) or email engagement@mackay.qld.gov.au.
Glen Kelly says council divisions would give Mackay residents clearer representation and a stronger local voice. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara
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