Balonne Shire councillor Jason Southern announces immediate resignation over ‘time and work constraints’

A southwest Queensland councillor has announced his immediate departure from the role, citing staff shortages at his business as one of the reasons. FULL STORY.

Balonne Shire councillor Jason Southern has annouced his resignation from council effective immediately.

The Balonne Shire will see a by-election in 2025 after the immediate resignation of one of its councillors.

Jason Southern announced his resignation from council effective immediately, due to work and time commitments.

In a statement, Mr Southern said he was disappointed in having to make the decision, however his other commitments proved too great.

“The reason behind my decision comes down to work constraints with some recent staff shortages in my business requiring my undivided attention,” Mr Southern said.

“I really feel like the role of a councillor needs a solid commitment of time and effort and the reality is that my business commitments are stretching me too thin to give the role all that it deserves at this point.

“I am honoured to have been given the opportunity to be a local councillor in Balonne and am looking forward to seeing someone step into the role that can give the position all that it deserves.”

Mayor Samantha O’Toole thanked Mr Southern for his efforts and bid him well wishes for his future.

“This morning Mr Southern advised me of his decision to resign from council due to an increase in his work commitments and time constraints,” Ms O’Toole said.

“Being a local councillor is a great opportunity to guide the direction of our local government, but it does take a considerable commitment of time and effort on the part of each councillor.

“I would like to thank Jason for his efforts and I wish him well into the future.”

Council’s chief executive Michelle Clarke has notified the department responsible for Local Government of Mr Southern’s resignation and has started the process of working towards a by-election to fill the role.

“At this stage, there are no dates that I can provide, but we will keep the community informed as this process unfolds,” she said.

Originally published as Balonne Shire councillor Jason Southern announces immediate resignation over ‘time and work constraints’