Mar 11 • 20:15 UTC 🇦🇺 Australia ABC News AU

'Short-changed' north Queenslanders in disbelief at loss of seat in state parliament

Residents of North Queensland express disbelief and disappointment at the proposed abolition of their parliamentary seat due to population shifts.

Residents of North Queensland are voicing their concerns and disbelief over the proposed changes to electoral boundaries, which would see the abolition of the Hill seat in state parliament. This change is part of the Queensland Redistribution Commission's plan to address demographic shifts and population growth predominantly occurring in the state's south-east, particularly around Moreton Bay. The loss of the Hill seat represents a significant loss of representation for this region, which encompasses areas centered around the Atherton Tablelands, known for its agricultural focus.

The Queensland Redistribution Commission has argued that removing a seat from North Queensland is essential to balance the representation in accordance with the changing population dynamics. The proposal has sparked a wave of objections from local residents, who feel that their voices are being diminished in the political arena. With the public consultation period open until April 9, many citizens are rallying to lodge their objections, emphasizing the importance of retaining political representation for North Queensland.

This situation raises broader questions about the political representation of rural versus urban areas in Queensland. The opposition and various local advocacy groups are expected to mobilize against the proposed changes, arguing that the current population metrics do not adequately reflect the needs and challenges of rural communities. The outcomes of this proposed shift will determine not only the political landscape in Queensland but also reflect how population changes can significantly impact regional representation in governance.

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