Councils are the tier of government closest to our lives. They make today happen, while planning for tomorrow.
We know Queenslanders love a swim – 86 million of them, in fact. That’s how many visits Queenslanders make each year to our 433 aquatic facilities, generating a total annual social value of $2.64 billion.
Queenslanders love a good book. Our network of council-run libraries are among the most loved public spaces in the state. They receive 17 million in-person visits and a further 17 million online visits each year.
We help recycle a mountain of waste - around 165 Eiffel Towers’ worth - each year.And on the home front, Council operators pick up about 700,000 domestic bins every working day across Queensland.
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View our handy guide on what council is – and isn’t – responsible for.
Council’s contribution is visible through services like looking after our parks, playgrounds, community centres and libraries, and by providing on-the-ground support during and after disasters. It’s also in the work that often gets overlooked, like local roads, traffic, waste management, pest mitigation and infrastructure planning. And when vital gaps appear, councils step in to meet everyday community needs.
Research by the Local Government Association of Queensland (LGAQ) revealed that while councils remain the most trusted level of government: many people aren’t clear on which tier of government delivers which services. While councils’ everyday work is visible, their strategic and behind-the-scenes services often go unnoticed.
That’s why LGAQ partnered with councils across Queensland to bring both the visible and invisible work into focus.
Councils are with you, for you, every day. They make today happen, while planning for tomorrow.
Proudly delivered by LGAQ As the peak body for Queensland’s 77 local councils, LGAQ works alongside councillors and council teams to strengthen liveability, transparency and community connection across the state.
It turns out dogs are Queenslanders’ best friends!Our councils collectively manage around 500, 000 pet registrations annually, providing animal management services like shelter and ranger patrols using the fees.
Our network of pipes and sewers could wrap around the world – twice! To safeguard public health, Queensland councils manage more than 82,000 kilometres of water and sewerage mains, providing clean drinking water through your tap and taking away your waste.
At least part of your journey to work takes place on a council path or road.Local government is responsible for the state's most extensive road portfolio, managing 150,000 kilometres of roads that serve as the backbone for freight and daily travel for millions of people.
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Disclaimer Some data on this page was drawn from publicly available information, including council and government sources, along with some sectorwide estimates. While compiled with care, the figures are approximate and may vary.
Images and video Video and images on this page appear with thanks to Queensland councils, as well as TEQ. Fireworks video clip:Videographer/Drone Pilot: Reuben Nutt Credit: Tourism & Events Queensland Aurukun Shire Council, Cooling down with Nova and Reign - Mirryndah Nixon