After the most historic reform in local government history, the communities of Rockhampton, Fitzroy, Livingstone and Mount Morgan joined together on 15 March 2008 to elect the first Rockhampton Regional Council - one team serving one region for better services and facilities.
With more than 1,200 employees serving more than 111,500 people in 79 unique communities throughout our region, Rockhampton Regional Council is about much more than just "roads, rates and rubbish", directly responsible for many different programs and activities.
These range from the operation of a Zoo, to the operation of an airport! Council is also directly responsible for the provision of numerous essential services to the community including aged care, child care, health and immunisation, libraries, to name but a few.
Rockhampton Regional Council consists of the Mayor and 10 Councillors who each represent separate divisions from within the region. All voters within the Rockhampton region elect the Mayor.
Queensland Local Government elections are held every four years, the next to be held in March 2012.
The specific powers, duties and responsibilities of Councillors are set out in the Local Government Act 2009.
Councillors play a vital role in representing the community, setting policy and ensuring effective corporate governance. Upon commencement with Council, Councillors are appointed to various Standing Committees and Advisory Committees. Through this committee system, Councillors have the opportunity to effectively focus on issues with sufficient time allowed for discussions and debate.
Council supports a transparent decision-making process, and minutes are taken at all meetings and made available to the public.