The division of Capricornia was one of the 65 electorates established in 1901 for Australia’s first federal election, making it one of the oldest in the country.
Capricornia was named in recognition of the Tropic of Capricorn and encompasses the major regional city and gateway to Central Queensland, Rockhampton, as well as the beach towns of Yeppoon and Emu Park to the east. Stretching north to the cane fields of Sarina and southern suburbs of Mackay and west to the mining and agricultural hubs of Collinsville, Clermont, Moranbah and Dysart.
The seat covers a total area of 90,903 square kilometres and consists of five local government areas: Rockhampton Regional Council, Livingstone Shire Council, Isaac Regional Council, Mackay Regional Council and Whitsunday Regional Council. The electorate of Capricornia is one of the most economically diverse in Australia. Agriculture, mining, manufacturing and tourism all major contributors to the wealth of the nation.
