Advocating for Our Communities: A Productive Visit to Queensland State Government

In a significant step towards securing a stronger, more sustainable future for our region, Torres Strait Island Regional Council (TSIRC) leadership team recently engaged in high-level advocacy with the Queensland State Government.

Mayor Cr Phillemon Mosby, Deputy Mayor Cr. Ranetta Wosomo, Chief Executive Officer James William, alongside Executive Director Building Services Wayne Green and Executive Director Community Services Dawson Sailor, travelled to Brisbane to meet with key State Government Ministers during their first parliamentary sitting for 2025. This visit was a critical opportunity to ensure that the voices of our communities are heard at the highest levels of decision-making.

During the trip, our delegation met with several influential Ministers, including:

• The Hon. Ann Leahy MP – Minister for Local Government and Water; Minister for Fire, Disaster Recovery, and Volunteers.
• The Hon. Timothy Nicholls MP – Minister for Health and Ambulance Services.
• The Hon. Dale Last MP – Minister for Natural Resources and Mines; Minister for Manufacturing; Minister for Regional and Rural Development.
• The Hon. Sam O’Connor MP – Minister for Housing and Public Works; Minister for Youth.

These discussions focused on pressing issues that impact our communities, ranging from financial sustainability and economic development to cultural preservation and social well-being. Our goal remains clear—to improve the liveability and resilience of our communities by advocating for meaningful policy changes, targeted investments, and enhanced government support.

This successful advocacy trip would not have been possible without the tireless efforts of our Executive Team, the Local Government Association of Queensland (LGAQ) Advocacy Team, and our dedicated Council Team. Their commitment to ensuring seamless logistics and well-prepared engagements played a crucial role in the effectiveness of our discussions.

As we continue to work towards a prosperous and thriving Torres Strait, TSIRC remains steadfast in its commitment to advocating for the needs of our people. We look forward to building on these discussions and fostering strong partnerships with all levels of government to deliver real outcomes for our communities.