Local government plays an important role in community governance. As a forum for local decision-making, it helps deliver the State Government's priorities locally and regionally.

The following documents explain how councils fit into government in Australia, what councils do, who works for councils, and how their work is funded.

• How your council works for you brochure ( 511 KB)
• Overview of Local Government factsheet ( 290 KB)

Rates and valuations

Who sets rates, how are they decided, and types of rates and charges existing in Queensland.

Councils' accountability to the community

Councils are accountable to you and the community. Find out about accountable and transparent local government and how to resolve issues about council decisions.

Sustainability and reporting

To ensure local government stability, councils are required to provide data related to governance and sustainability annually. Summary reports on this data are available. Information relating to individual councils is not available.

Other local government organisations

Links and contacts for local government organisations who can advise and assist you.

Model code of conduct

Local governments can adopt their own code of conduct consistent with the Local Government Act 1993 or adopt the model code of conduct gazetted by the Minister for Local Government.

State and Local Government Protocol

Establishes roles and responsibilities of State government and local government in the Queensland system of local government.

Reimbursement of expenses for councillors

Requirements for local governments when developing an expenses reimbursement policy for councillors (separate to remuneration as already determined by the Local Government Remuneration Tribunal).

Contact us

If you have further questions, please email us at lgenquiries@dip.qld.gov.au or phone 07 3235 9680.