What’s happening?
Townsville City Council will hold a mayoral by-election on Saturday, 15 November 2025. This will be a full postal vote, with ballot packs mailed to all enrolled voters after nominations closed on 16 October.
Voters must complete their ballots by 6pm on election day, and the Electoral Commission of Queensland (ECQ) must receive them by 5pm on 25 November for the vote to count.
Why it matters
The by-election comes at a pivotal time for Townsville, following months of political turbulence and scrutiny of local leadership. The city’s next mayor will inherit ongoing challenges around infrastructure, rates, and city maintenance. With voting compulsory, the election is seen as a test of community confidence and direction for Queensland’s largest regional city.
Local Impact
Townsville residents will determine not just a new mayor but also the direction of council priorities; from managing rates and services to revitalising the city’s image. The outcome could influence future collaboration with state and federal governments, particularly in defence, infrastructure, and tourism.
By the numbers
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Voting closes at 6pm on Saturday, 15 November 2025.
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The ECQ must receive ballots by 5pm on Tuesday, 25 November 2025.
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Townsville City Council serves more than 190,000 residents, making this one of Queensland’s largest local elections.
Zoom In
The by-election has drawn a diverse field of candidates from across business, politics, and the community sector:
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Troy Thompson – Elected mayor in March 2024, suspended later that year following a Crime and Corruption Commission investigation. The inquiry has since concluded, but findings remain unreleased.
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Harry Patel – A former nurse at Townsville University Hospital, contesting the mayoralty for the fourth time, with a focus on council spending and basic services.
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Nick Dametto – Former Katter’s Australian Party MP for Hinchinbrook who resigned from state parliament to run as an independent, pledging to improve city presentation and lobby for redevelopment funding.
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Chris Poulsen – Restaurant owner and former Suncorp financial planner with experience in the mining and energy sectors, emphasising city-wide maintenance and budget restraint.
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Ann-Maree Greaney – Acting mayor and councillor since 2016, campaigning on budget transparency, free CBD parking options, and community consultation.
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Paul Jacob – Returning councillor who previously served briefly as acting mayor in 2024, promising fiscal discipline and advocating for improved public transport, including light rail.
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Joanne Keune – Business owner, postgraduate student, and former council employee with a background in arts management, focused on financial oversight and cutting consultancy costs.
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David Kippin – Former Townsville Enterprise CEO and local investor, running on restoring civic pride and strengthening defence community ties.
Zoom Out
This by-election follows a turbulent term for Townsville City Council marked by leadership instability and public criticism over governance and expenditure. The campaign has reignited long-standing debates about rates, city upkeep, and major project priorities.
What to look for next
Ballots must be posted promptly to ensure timely arrival. The official count will follow the 25 November deadline, with the ECQ expected to declare results soon after. The newly elected mayor will then lead Townsville into 2026 with a mandate shaped by community expectations for accountability and service delivery.
