July 26, 2016
The State Government will seek an independent review of recent elections conducted by the Electoral Commission of Queensland.
The review will examine the 2016 Queensland Local Government elections, the referendum on fixed four-year terms for Queensland parliament, and the recent Toowoomba South by-election.
The review comes after the Electoral Commission drew heavy criticism for lengthy delays in announcing results.
In the March Council elections, South Burnett residents had to wait sixteen days after the polls closed for the region’s new Mayor to be declared – a delay that almost forced the postponement of the new Council’s first meeting.
Attorney-General Yvette D’Ath said the review presented an opportunity to learn how elections in Queensland could be conducted more effectively.
“Elections are the most fundamental component of our democracy, the chance for Queenslanders to have their say on how we are governed,” Mrs D’Ath said.
“After every election, there’s an opportunity to look back on how things are done and to examine which parts of the system work well, and which can be improved.
“We want to ensure we have an efficient system that voters have faith in, and one that’s in line with modern capabilities.
“Having an independent review will allow recommendations to be put to the Government that may not have been otherwise addressed by ECQ.”
The Attorney-General will appoint a panel of three members to oversee the review, which is expected to be completed within three months.
The Electoral Commission of Queensland has also conducted its own review into the Local Government election in March and accompanying referendum.
That review will help inform the independent review.
