Sunshine Coast Regional Council has emerged as one of the top three local governments for electoral expenditures in Queensland this year, spending $525,782.93.
According to the Electoral Commission of Queensland (ECQ), more than $10 million in total was spent by candidates, political parties and third parties during the local government elections on March 16.
“Disclosure of gifts and money spent during the election period provides transparency and ensures the integrity of the election process,” Electoral Commissioner, Pat Vidgen, stated.
“The election summary return shows all electoral expenditure incurred for an election and is required, under the Local Government Electoral Act 2011, to be returned within 15 weeks of an election being held.”
Other local governments with high electoral expenditures include Brisbane City Council at $4,350,444.58, and Gold Coast City Council at $590,757.42.