Family concerns is the reason for Mackay councillor George Christensen will step down from council.
The two time member for Dawson and current councillor was elected 12 months ago.
He cited serious personal situation for the reason for his resignation – relating to his family.
“After long consideration, I’ve made the decision to resign from my position as Councillor for Mackay Regional Council,” Mr Christensen said.
“This has not been an easy decision. In fact, it’s one of the hardest I’ve ever made in public life,” he said.
“But sometimes, there are responsibilities that rise above politics, above titles, and even above public service. And for me, that responsibility is family.
“There is a serious personal situation unfolding that may soon require me to become the full-time carer for my daughter. She’s not in Mackay. Remaining in this role would mean being away from her — at a time when she needs me most, and I need to be with her.”
Mr Christensen said he won’t go into further detail due to privacy – and that family is sacred.
“Let me also make this very clear: this decision has nothing to do with recent media attacks. I’ve been dragged through worse during my time in federal politics. In fact, I informed Cr Peter Sheedy of my resignation plans before the latest attack even appeared. So no — this isn’t about pressure. This is about priorities,” he said.
“That said, I won’t leave without speaking honestly about what I’ve seen — not just in this council, but in local government more broadly — and what I believe must change if democracy is going to survive at the grassroots level.”
He will hand his resignation in on Friday afternoon.
