Housing, disaster relief, tourism and infrastructure were on the agenda when Douglas Shire Mayor Lisa Scomazzon travelled to Brisbane in August as part of a Far North Queensland Organisation of Councils (FNQROC) delegation to advocate for the Douglas Shire – and the Far North - ahead of the October state election.

FNQROC represents twelve Far North Queensland Councils ranging from Hinchinbrook to the south, Croydon to the west and Cook Shire Council inclusive of Hope Vale to the north.

The delegation, consisting of ten members, including eight Mayors and Deputy Mayors, met with key politicians including Premier Steven Miles and Treasurer Cameron Dick, among others. 

Mayor Scomazzon emphasised key issues for the Douglas Shire, including disaster assistance, agriculture and tourism.

She specifically addressed the housing crisis with the Premier, highlighting that rents in the Douglas Shire are outpacing wages, and over half of the dwellings in Craiglie and Port Douglas are used for short-term visitor accommodation.

The delegation discussed social and affordable housing with Minister for Housing Meaghan Scanlon, who confirmed a $13.5 million fund for regional Local Housing Action Plans (LHAP), with larger councils competing for funds and smaller councils receiving allocations.

FNQ involvement with the 2032 Olympics

Tourism was another key topic during the meeting with Minister for Tourism and Sport Michael Healy. Mayor Scomazzon advocated for the local tourism industry, focusing on the opportunities presented by the 2032 Brisbane Olympics.

“I used this opportunity to advocate for the Shire on issues including tourism, and to better understand his vision for the future of tourism in Far North Queensland,” she said.

“We informed him we would like Far North Queensland to be more involved with the Olympic games either during the games or at least promoting it as a holiday destination.”

Engaging with Opposition members

The delegation met with several Opposition members, including Leader David Crisafulli and Shadow Minister for Energy and Cost of Living Deborah Frecklington.

Mayor Scomazzon discussed regional issues with Mr. Crisafulli and inquired about his plans should his party win the election. He assured her there would be no council amalgamations.

In discussions with Ms Frecklington, the focus was on housing and cost of living challenges. 

Mayor Scomazzon noted the Shadow Minister's empathy, stating, “Ms Frecklington was very understanding of regional council issues because of her upbringing in Guluguba,” a small community in Queensland’s Western Downs.