In recent times, we have seen the deep and far reaching impact the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) has had upon nearly every aspect of our lives.
As the closest level of government to the community, local government is playing – and will continue to play – an important role in helping our residents and our local businesses manage the impacts of this pandemic and come through this unprecedented challenge.
Now more than ever, it is critical for elected members to demonstrate leadership, provide timely and honest information in a considered and responsible way and do their utmost to build resilience and caring and prepare for the recovery of their communities.
I am heartened to see strong examples of councils doing this right across Queensland. In addition to ensuring local services that are vital to everyday life continue, councils across the state are taking swift and proactive action to help keep their communities safe, look after vulnerable people, provide support to local businesses and attempt to lessen the impact of the virus and the national public health restrictions.
Recently, Bundaberg Regional councillors unanimously voted for an economic stimulus package which will see a moratorium on interest for outstanding rates and charges until June and rent relief for council owned commercial tourism and retail shop leases until September 30.
In Cairns, the council will be injecting $2.5 million into the community by bringing forward maintenance works and by reducing rent by 50 percent until July for businesses leasing council
facilities.
Brisbane City Council will waive all charges, rents, levies and permit fees for all businesses.
There are examples like this across our state.
Councils will continue to place the needs of their communities as their highest priority and we at the LGAQ will continue to lobby the state and federal governments on your behalf.
Finally, it’s an important time to encourage kindness and at my own council on the Sunshine Coast, we have launched #CovidKindness – a platform which bringing together resources, ideas and information to assist residents to become a more connected and supportive neighbourhood, before, during and after COVID-19. These resources are available for any council to adapt and use as they see fit, in order to encourage our communities to look out for one another and to think locally in everything they do.
These are difficult and uncertain times for everyone, but together, we can continue our efforts to build more connected and inclusive communities.
