New Regional Commissioner To Give Burdekin Stronger Voice

Regional Queensland communities, including those in the Burdekin, are set to benefit from a stronger voice in government decision-making following the appointment of the State’s first Special Commissioner for Regional and Rural Queensland.

Townsville-based Andrew Cripps has been appointed to the newly created role, which aims to improve the delivery of government services, better reflect regional priorities, and help unlock economic opportunities across the state.

A North Queensland local, Mr Cripps was born and raised in Tully and brings extensive experience in both state and local government. He previously served as Queensland’s Minister for Natural Resources and Mines and as a Deputy Mayor, and more recently worked as Recovery Coordinator in North Queensland following the 2025 floods.

In his new position, Mr Cripps will work directly with communities across regional and rural Queensland, acting as a link between local areas and government. The role is designed to ensure local concerns and ideas help shape policies, programs and investment decisions.

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For regions like the Burdekin, the appointment is expected to provide greater access to decision-makers and a clearer pathway for raising issues around infrastructure, services and economic development.

Member for Burdekin and Minister for Regional and Rural Development Dale Last said the role would help ensure regional communities are better heard.

“Queensland doesn’t start and end in Brisbane,” Mr Last said.

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“This Special Commissioner will be on the ground across the state, listening and helping deliver what’s needed for Queenslanders.

“As the most decentralised State in mainland Australia with more than half of the population living outside Brisbane, we understand the importance of a direct link between people in regional Queensland and decision-makers in government.”

Mr Last said the position would focus on improving access to essential services and supporting growth in regional areas, including backing local industries, attracting investment and ensuring infrastructure keeps pace with demand.

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He said having a senior government representative based in the regions would help address long-standing concerns around issues such as health services, housing, cost of living and community safety.

Mr Cripps’ appointment comes as part of the State Government’s broader plan to strengthen regional Queensland and ensure communities outside South East Queensland are supported to grow and thrive.

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“Regional Queensland is full of opportunity, and this role is about making sure communities are supported to grow, attract investment and create jobs,” Mr Last said.

“Whether it’s supporting growers, backing local industry or making sure services like hospitals, roads and schools keep pace with growing communities, this role is about turning local voices and knowledge into real results.” 

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