Queensland

Agriculture Minister Leanne Donaldson resigns her position

Embattled Agriculture Minister Leanne Donaldson has resigned from the cabinet.

The member for Bundaberg has faced intense scrutiny after it was revealed she had not paid almost $8000 in rates for three years.

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Minister quits over unpaid rates

Agriculture Minister Leanne Donaldson resigns from cabinet after failing to pay rates on her house for three years. 7 News Queensland

On Thursday night, Ms Donaldson told Parliament her position had become untenable.

She also revealed she had not paid her car registration by the due date.

"This morning I met the Premier and Deputy Premier to discuss the issue of my unpaid property rates and I was asked to advise if there were any other issues of which they should be aware.

"Following Question Time I became aware that my vehicle registration had not been paid by the due date last week and I took immediate steps to rectify this issue.

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"However, last week I had driven the vehicle on a date after the registration had expired.

"Clearly this does not meet the high standards set by the Premier for all members of the government."

Leanne Donaldson has resigned as Agriculture Minister.
Leanne Donaldson has resigned as Agriculture Minister. Photo: Supplied

Ms Donaldson said she informed Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk on Thursday night of her decision to resign as a minister.

"I wish to take this opportunity to thank departmental staff for the work that they have done, and the support they have given me during my time as minister."

She also thanked her ministerial staff for their hard work.

"I've enjoyed my time as minister and I look forward to supporting the good work of the government for the people of our state.

"I will continue to serve my community and I will continue to stand up for the people of Bundaberg."

Ms Donaldson is a member of the dominant Left faction, which also includes Jo-Ann Miller, Jackie Trad, Leeanne Enoch, Coralee O'Rourke and Mark Ryan among its members.

It is not yet known who will score the portfolio.

A spokesman for Ms Palaszczuk said: "The Premier will take her time and make a measured and responsible decision. There are expected to be only minimal changes to the cabinet."

In parliament on Thursday night, the LNP ramped up its calls for Transport Minister Stirling Hinchliffe to be sacked, following the crises in Queensland Rail.

There will be more than 100 cancellations of train services on Friday, as Queensland Rail deals with a driver shortage.

Opposition Leader Tim Nicholls said Ms Palaszczuk lacked the guts to sack Mr Hinchliffe.

"Why is it that the member for Bundamba got one chance and the member for Sandgate has had 100 chances?" Mr Nicholls said.

"This minister refuses to fall on his sword."

Ms Donaldson was named the Agriculture and Fisheries Minister in December 2015 following a cabinet reshuffle.

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