General News
24 March, 2020
Queensland Government unveils $4 billion package for jobs and business
Queensland Government unveils $4 billion package for jobs and business
The Palaszczuk Government has unveiled a $4 billion package in a bid to support health, jobs, households and Queensland businesses.
Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk said the measures are in response to an unprecedented crisis.
“To date, this is the biggest single relief package assembled by any state or territory,” the Premier said.
“Our $300 million household relief package will give Queensland households $200 off their utility bills...
“Our society is going through the most difficult period most of us have ever experienced,”
Deputy Premier and Treasurer Jackie Trad said the package pumps an additional $2.5 billion into protecting Queensland jobs and businesses.
“For small and medium businesses and large businesses specifically impacted by COVID-19, we will refund two months’ worth of payroll tax.
“Additionally, we’re giving small and medium businesses a three-month payroll tax holiday, and a further six-month payroll tax deferral for any of these Queensland businesses.
“Combined with the payroll tax deferrals we’ve already announced, it means no Queensland business impacted by COVID-19 will need to make a payroll tax payment this year.
“That $2.5 billion includes a package of up to $500 million to assist workers who lose their job or income and to help them find jobs in the industries that are vital to getting us through this crisis – health care, agriculture, food production, transport, cleaning and mining.
“We’re waiving liquor licencing fees for venues that have had to close their doors, providing rent relief for businesses who rent premises from the state government and giving sole traders, small and medium businesses a $500 rebate on their power bill for this year.
Minister for Health Steven Miles said protecting the health of Queenslanders is the Palaszczuk Government’s number one priority as we navigate through this pandemic.
“We are working to reduce the spread of the virus, but also to ensure we have enough capacity in the health system to support those who need intensive treatment,” Mr Miles said.
“To that end, we will invest an extra $1.2 billion to expand:
fever clinics
emergency department capacity
acute care services
regional aeromedical services for our remote communities.”
“We know our businesses are doing it incredibly tough right now. This package is designed to support them keeping their doors open through this crisis and keep their staff employed,” Ms Fentiman said.
"Today we will launch an online portal for businesses to apply for payroll tax relief which can be accessed via www.business.qld.gov.au "
