Queensland residents in the Livingstone, Douglas and Mareeba will be able to vote on de-amalgamation in March, with a simple answer of 'yes' or 'no' on voting forms.

State Local Government Minister, David Crisafilli, urged all registered voters to make their voice count on voting day.

“When the polls open on March 9, residents will have the rare opportunity to choose their system of local government,” Mr Crisafulli said.

“This referendum is a chance for the community to decide once and for all if it’s prepared to pay to establish a new local council.

The questions will read:

‘Should a Livingstone Shire Council be created by the de-amalgamation of the Rockhampton Regional Council local government area, with the costs to be met by the Livingstone Shire Council?’

or

‘Should a Mareeba Shire Council be created by the de-amalgamation of the Tablelands Regional Council local government area, with the costs to be met by the Mareeba Shire Council?’

or

‘Should a Douglas Shire Council be created by the de-amalgamation of the Cairns Regional Council local government area, with the costs to be met by the Douglas Shire Council?’

Only registered voters in the former council area will vote at the referendum on March 9.

Voting is compulsory and failing to vote will attract a fine of $110.

De-amalgamation information is available at http://www.dlg.qld.gov.au/bc// 

Referendum information is available at http://www.ecq.qld.gov.au/