The Local Government Association of Queensland (LGAQ) has ranked parties in the state’s upcoming election. 

The LGAQ says its new report card should serve as a reminder to political parties to address the critical issues facing local communities or risk losing voter support. 

The evaluation of the initial policy commitments of major parties reveals significant gaps in their responses to pressing concerns, including the housing crisis, infrastructure needs, and cost of living.

The LGAQ’s analysis, based on the top issues identified by councils across Queensland, found that both major parties - Labor and the Liberal National Party (LNP) - as well as the Greens, earned a 'C+' overall. 

Katter’s Australian Party received a 'C', while One Nation is yet to present any substantial commitments.

Labor was credited with a ‘B’ for its work on energy and community transformation, particularly for introducing a leading code of conduct for renewable energy projects and establishing Coexistence Queensland. 

However, the LGAQ highlighted the need for a state-based authority to work with the Commonwealth on long-term plans for community sustainability amidst the transition to a decarbonised economy.

The LNP received a 'B+' for its approach to supporting stronger councils and a 'B' for cost of living relief. 

Their commitment to a $2 billion infrastructure fund directly aligns with LGAQ’s earlier research on rebalancing the cost of infrastructure to unlock new housing supply. 

LGAQ CEO Alison Smith said “there are still plenty of policy and commitment gaps from parties - major and minor - across the board”.

As the October 26 election nears, she says local councils and communities will demand clear answers from candidates on how they intend to improve liveability across Queensland’s cities, towns, and regions.

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