Queensland councils are facing massive and unique financial burdens due to State Government legislation, rapid population growth and maintaining 152,000 kms of council roads, according to the Local Government Association of Queensland.

“We are maintaining 152,415 kms of roads – much more than councils in other states – and that’s an enormous impost," Cr Abbot said.

“Councils in Queensland also have responsibility for water and sewerage – which no other state does.

“Rapid growth in major centres throughout the state is adding to the strain because we need to provide more infrastructure and it does not come cheaply.

“Councils have tried to keep to keep a lid on rates but they continue to climb because many councils, particularly those in growth areas, have been playing catch-up with water infrastructure and maintenance."

Cr Abbot said councils were under even more financial pressure following the state government’s recent withdrawal of subsidies for vital infrastructure.

He said the decision had already greatly damaged councils’ budgets and would continue to do so for years to come.