Overview

The Division of Petrie is a federal electoral division in the state of Queensland, represented in the Australian House of Representatives. Created in 1949, it was named for Andrew Petrie (1798–1872), a civil engineer, explorer and one of the first free settlers in the Brisbane area. The division covers coastal and inland suburbs that form part of Brisbane’s northern metropolitan region and the Redcliffe peninsula.

Boundaries and suburbs

Petrie occupies a mix of seaside communities, suburban centres and newer residential developments. Its boundaries have changed over time through formal redistributions to reflect population shifts. The division typically includes, in whole or part, the following suburbs:

  • Bald Hills
  • Bracken Ridge
  • Carseldine
  • Clontarf
  • Deception Bay
  • Fitzgibbon
  • Griffin
  • Kippa-Ring
  • Mango Hill
  • Margate
  • North Lakes
  • Redcliffe
  • Rothwell
  • Scarborough
  • Woody Point
  • parts of Aspley, Bridgeman Downs and Burpengary

These suburbs combine long-established town centres with newer estates and commercial developments, producing a varied local economy and community profile.

History and development

Formed after World War II during a nationwide redistribution, the Division of Petrie has evolved alongside Brisbane’s northern growth corridor. Early settlements around the Redcliffe peninsula were originally seaside towns and fishing villages; over the late 20th and early 21st centuries they have become largely suburbanised. Infrastructure projects such as road upgrades and improved public transport have been important to local development and connectivity with Brisbane’s central areas.

Political profile and significance

Petrie has been notable as a seat that reflects changing suburban demographics. It has at times been marginal in federal elections and has alternated between the major political parties, making it a focus for campaign attention. Local issues that frequently shape electoral debate include transport and commuting, coastal and environmental management, housing and community services.

Notable facts

  • The division is an Australian Electoral Division in Queensland.
  • It takes its name from Andrew Petrie, an early settler and builder associated with Brisbane.
  • Periodic boundary redistributions by the Australian Electoral Commission alter the division’s shape to maintain equal representation.