THE Crisafulli Government has moved to restore what it calls “fairness and balance” to Queensland’s electoral system, introducing a wide-ranging package of reforms to Parliament on Thursday, December 11.
The Bill delivers key election commitments, including tightening voting eligibility so that offenders serving prison or detention sentences of 12 months or more will be barred from voting in state and local government elections, as well as referendums.
In a major shift to political financing rules, the Government will also reinstate equal treatment for donations, allowing both trade unions and property developers to contribute to state election campaigns.
However, the ban on developer donations in local government elections will remain and be strengthened through a new offence targeting breaches.
Further reforms aim to boost transparency, with all political advertising in the 12 months leading up to polling day required to include clear authorisation.
Attorney-General Deb Frecklington said the changes would deliver a fairer, more accountable electoral framework for Queenslanders.