Council reinforces priorities following Federal Election announcement

Gladstone Regional Council is reinforcing its election priorities now the 2025 Australian Federal Election has been called for Saturday 3 May.

Housing solutions, a strategic naval presence, regional water supply and wastewater, and a modern events and sporting precinct have all been identified as critical priorities for the Gladstone Region.

Council is calling on Federal Government support for:

Housing – Provide immediate solutions to the housing crisis.

Royal Australian Navy Fleet Base – Establish a permanent Royal Australian Navy (RAN) Base in Gladstone (Fleet Base North), as the primary home of the RAN’s east-coast fleet.

Regional Water Supply and Wastewater – $170M over the next three years to fund and meet current and future regional water supply and wastewater infrastructure needs.

Harvey Road Sports and Events Precinct – $3.4M to secure approvals and complete detailed designs for the project to be construction investment ready.

Gladstone Region Mayor Matt Burnett said with the Federal Election campaign underway, all political parties and their leaders are being called upon to play their part in growing the Gladstone Region.

“The federal government’s continued contribution and support, whether that be engagement and/or investment in our priorities is key in turning them into reality for our community,” Mayor Burnett said.

“Our region is home to 65,000 people, supports almost 28,000 jobs, has an annual economic output of $20.535 billion.

“So, our message is simple – support the region that supports the national economy.”

Cr Burnett said the priorities identified focus on strategic infrastructure and policy initiatives that will not only drive the region forward but are critical to support the national economy.

“These priorities are not something we’ve thought about overnight – they are well planned, well detailed and are crucial to future-proofing our region,” he said.

“I welcome all enquiries as well as commitments from candidates to play their part in ensuring the Gladstone Region remains a fantastic place to live, work, invest and play.”

Visit www.gladstone.qld.gov.au/election for more information on Council’s priorities ahead of the 2025 Australian Federal Election.

Download this media release (PDF)