Community Backs Divisional Representation in Electoral Consultation

Published on 18 March 2026

Whitsunday Regional Council has resolved to retain the region’s current divided electoral model for the 2028 local government elections, following extensive community consultation earlier this year.

The consultation asked residents whether Council should retain its current system of six divisions, where councillors represent specific areas of the region, or move to an undivided model where councillors represent the region as a whole.

The consultation ran for 44 days from 10 January to 22 February 2026 and generated 1,412 engagements through online and hardcopy surveys, information stalls, telephone interviews and focus group discussions.

Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor Ry Collins said the consultation provided valuable insight into community views on local representation.

“This consultation was about giving our community the opportunity to have their say on how they would like to be represented at the local government level,” Mayor Collins said.

“Across the consultation, the majority of respondents supported retaining the current divisional model, particularly in communities such as Bowen, Collinsville and Proserpine where residents value having a councillor who understands the needs of their local area.”

Mayor Collins said the consultation also captured a range of perspectives, with some residents highlighting potential benefits of an undivided model, including greater regional accountability and the ability to vote for all councillors across the region.

“After considering the feedback received, Council has resolved to retain the current divisional electoral arrangements for the 2028 local government elections,” he said.

Mayor Collins thanked residents who took the time to participate in the consultation and share their views.

A summary of the consultation results will also be shared with the community.

For media enquiries, contact:
Greg Martin, Communications and Marketing Manager
07 4945 0617 or Email: communications@whitsundayrc.qld.gov.au