Each level of government provides different services to Australians. The below table is an example of each level’s responsibilities to assist residents, although at times there can be an overlap in responsibilities between governments.
| Federal Government | State Government (Queensland) | Local Councils |
| Responsible for issues that affect all Australians (national issues) | Responsible for issues that affect people in that state or territory | Responsible for issues that affect local communities
|
| Post, telephones and the internet | Public transport | Rubbish collection and recycling |
| Monetary Policy and Banking | Schools | Parks, sports fields and swimming pools |
| Immigration | Hospitals | Pet control |
| Defence | Public housing | Parking |
| Federal Taxes | State Taxes | Local Government Rates |
| International Treaties | Police | Local laws officers |
| General Practitioners (GP) | Building codes | Food service inspectors |
Representatives are elected for each level of government and as such, have responsibilities and a role directly related to that government. For example, Sandy as a State Member of Parliament, can assist in anything related to State Government departments or agencies, and she represents Noosa in Queensland Parliament and regarding legislation, likewise our Federal MP does the same with Federal Parliament and legislation, and the Noosa Mayor & Councillors with Local Government and local planning & laws. It can be difficult to know exactly which representative is responsible to assist on a particular issue and our office staff are always happy to help determine this and advise further.
The boundaries for each of these areas represented are different. Our Local Government in this area is Noosa Shire Council, with their boundary area shared by the State Electorates of Noosa & Nicklin. Most Noosa Shire residents are within the Federal Electorate of Wide Bay, although some to the south may be in Fairfax. You can search your address for Local & State Governments at www.ecq.qld.gov.au/electoral-boundaries/where-is-my-electorate and Federal Government at https://electorate.aec.gov.au
When there is a failure or complaint at one level of government, there are appropriate channels to address these and it is not always as simple as asking a State MP to step in on a Local Government matter as one example. To assist in this example, information on the oversight of local government is available at www.sandybolton.com/oversight-of-local-government.
Where do Noosa residents go when they have a concern?
State Government
Our office is located at Noosa Civic, we regularly conduct mobile offices, and are available via 5319 3100, email noosa@parliament.qld.gov.au.
Local Government
Noosa Shire Council is located in Tewantin. Their staff are available on 5329 6500 or visit their website at www.noosa.qld.gov.au to obtain the contact details for the Noosa Mayor and Councillors.
Federal Government
North is Llew O’Brien representing Wide Bay (most of Noosa area) on 4121 2936 or Ted O’Brien representing Fairfax on 5479 2800 to our South.