An independent review of Queensland's electoral boundaries is set to commence this year, aiming to redefine the shape and size of all 93 electorates in the state. This comprehensive evaluation will be conducted by a three-member panel known as the Queensland Redistribution Commission (QRC). Their primary objective is to ensure that the enrolment of every seat remains within a legally established numerical limit.
As of January, 14 seats in Queensland fell outside the 10 percent quota. This quota is calculated by dividing the total number of enrolled electors across Queensland by the number of electoral districts. Adjustments are made for electorates exceeding 100,000 square kilometers, such as Traeger, represented by Robbie Katter, which spans over 400,000 square kilometers and constitutes roughly a quarter of the state's landmass. The electorate of Gregory, another vast region, is notably 10 percent below the quota.
"Where a particular electoral district varies by more or less than 10 per cent from that quota, it is taken to be 'out of quota'," said an ECQ spokesperson.
Robbie Katter has voiced concerns over the challenges posed by managing such an expansive and remote electorate. With more than 20 townships and over 40 schools within Traeger's boundaries, Katter emphasizes the need for increased representation in regional and remote areas to enhance rural governance.
The QRC will take into account factors like communication methods, travel capabilities, and physical geography during their assessment. These considerations are crucial in addressing the logistical complexities faced by representatives of large electorates.
"The conversation can't just be around geographic size, because in a working sense if you had an enormously large electorate but only a few towns, there would be some benefits to that," Robbie Katter remarked.
Political expert Paul Williams from Griffith University has advocated for an increase in the number of Members of Parliament (MPs) in Queensland's legislative assembly. He suggests that such a measure would bolster representation, particularly in sprawling rural regions like Traeger and Gregory. These areas face unique challenges due to their vast geographical expanse and sparse populations.
"Brisbane doesn't need any more representation. It's adequately represented," asserted Robbie Katter, highlighting the disparity between urban and rural representation.
The QRC's review will also determine whether additional seats should be allocated to regional and remote areas, thereby providing more equitable representation across the state. This initiative aims to address the needs of communities that are often overlooked due to their geographical isolation.
