Scenic Rim backs call to secure long-term funding for SEQ councils

Scenic Rim Regional Council will join Somerset Regional Council in calling on the Queensland Government to make the South East Queensland (SEQ) Community Stimulus Program a permanently funded initiative.

At its Ordinary Meeting today, Council resolved to support Somerset's motion for the continuation of the funding program, which will be put forward at the 2025 Local Government Association of Queensland (LGAQ) Annual Conference in October.

Scenic Rim Mayor Tom Sharp said the South East Queensland Community Stimulus Program was a vital source of funding for councils across the region and its continuation was critical to maintaining services and infrastructure.

“The South East Queensland Community Stimulus Program has delivered significant benefits to our communities, helping councils deliver essential infrastructure and services that would otherwise be out of reach,” Cr Sharp said.

“With the program currently due to cease in 2027, there is a real risk that councils across South East Queensland will be left without the resources needed to meet growing demands and rising costs.

“By supporting Somerset Regional Council’s motion, we are standing together to ensure the State Government recognises the importance of this program.”

The LGAQ represents all 77 Queensland councils, and its annual conference provides a platform for members to collectively advocate to the State and Commonwealth governments on issues of shared importance.

Cr Sharp said supporting the motion was an important step in ensuring the long-term financial sustainability of local government in South East Queensland.

“Failure to secure this funding stream would have a detrimental impact on the ability of councils to maintain infrastructure and deliver services,” he said.

“Council must continue to advocate at every opportunity to protect vital funding arrangements that help us meet the needs of our communities."

The 2024–27 SEQ Community Stimulus Program is a three-year, $100 million initiative supporting 12 councils across South East Queensland. It funds projects that improve local infrastructure, planning and community development, addressing critical needs such as housing and growth.

The 2025 LGAQ Annual Conference will be held from 20 to 22 October at the Gold Coast Convention and Exhibition Centre.