Prominent Qlders call for transparent govt

A number of prominent Queenslanders are joining forces to urge the state's political parties to restore its democratic integrity.

About 50 signatories have put their names to a letter organised by think tank The Australia Institute calling for the restoration of the Fitzgerald principles.

The principles are named after former Queensland anti-corruption commissioner Tony Fitzgerald and relate to political notions of accountability and good governance. They include the public interest, equality and governmental transparency as key concerns.

The letter states: "Successive governments have become too close to industry lobbyists and representatives, particularly from the resources industry, undermining public trust in the political process.

"The political parties (should) commit to a fresh, principled way of conducting the business of government."

In particular, the letter targets the Newman government and argues it has weakened the state's anti-corruption watchdog and crafted laws that flout individual liberties.

Legal figures such as former Queensland Supreme Court judge Martin Moynihan, former Queensland Bar Council head Peter Davis and former Legal Aid Queensland chair Margaret O'Donnell have lent their support.

Queenslander Council of Unions president John Battams, as well as former Courier-Mail editor Greg Chamberlin and radio host Alan Jones have also signed the letter.

The Australia Institute says it has received positive responses from Queensland Labor, Bob Katter's Australia Party, Palmer United Party and the Queensland Greens.

The LNP hasn't responded.

Queenslanders head to the polls on January 31.