Queensland Minister for Local Government, Water and Volunteers, Ann Leahy, has today granted a request from Townsville City Council to conduct its upcoming by-election by full postal ballot.
The Minister said a full postal ballot will deliver the election in the most efficient way and help keep the costs of the by-election down for Townsville voters.
Ms Leahy said the people of Townsville “deserved certainty in their Mayor”.
Today’s announcement follows last week’s resignation of Mayor, Troy Thompson, nearly a year after he was suspended on full pay, amid an ongoing Crime and Corruption Commission investigation into his military, education and business credentials.
“Townsville residents will finally get to have their say and bring this saga to an end,” she said.
“A speedy process that is as little hassle as possible is what is required here and I’m pleased to be able to make that happen.
“I wish the Townsville voters all the best as they select their next representative.”
The Electoral Commission of Queensland has confirmed it will now deliver a full postal ballot for a 15 November election and will formally publish the Notice of Election early next week.
