SOUTHERN Downs councillors say they are channelling more money into the community, despite accepting a 2.25 per cent remuneration increase the previous term of council decided to redirect towards other budget activities.

Councillors at today's general council meeting voted unanimously to accept the salary increase recommended by the Local Government Remuneration and Discipline Tribunal.

Southern Downs Mayor Tracy Dobie justified the pay rise, saying councillors decided not accept any allowances or special favours for travel, dining and other expenses associated with the job.

"I know every councillor in this room pays for everything themselves... they buy tickets for events, they pay for their dinner," she said.

"Every councillor in this room spends as much money in this region as they possibly can."

Councillor Yve Stocks estimated each councillor could spend up to $20,000 each on allowances, had the policy to remove allowances not been adopted.

It is understood a small number of councillors still take out allowances to pay for their mobile phones.

The adjustment to councillor salaries comes each year and is based off a percentage of what state politicians receive.

The decision to accept the pay rise will add a total of more than $15,000 to the council's budget, with the Mayor's salary bumping up from $125,084 to $127,898.

Deputy Mayor Jo McNally echoed the Mayor's justifications.

"We get invited to lots of things as councillors, we do not claim for any of that," she said.

"We pay for all our own tickets. $15,000 for nine people for a pay rise is reasonable considering there is no allowances take for anything else."

But members of the community have spoken out, saying the councillors had the decision to channel that money back into the community, instead of into their own bank accounts.

"They talk about reducing our debt. If they are serious about their commitment, no is the only way to vote," Granite Belt teacher Terri McMeniman said.

Shaun Banham said the decision should be put to the people.

"We elect the government, why don't we decide of they need a pay rise?" he said.

Cr Dobie defended the income she received from her role as mayor.

"Some people might say 'what do you do to deserve it' but I know how hard I work."