The Queensland Government has unveiled a $4 billion package to support people’s health, jobs, households and businesses during the COVID-19 pandemic.
At a press conference on Tuesday, Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk said it broke her heart to see the lines of people outside Centrelink and that her government was doing all it could to support Queenslanders.
“These are people who have got families, who’ve got brothers and sisters, who have to put food on the table,” said Ms Palaszczuk.
“To date, this is the biggest single relief package assembled by any state or territory.
“Our $300 million household relief package will give Queensland households $200 off their utility bills, building on the $50 asset dividend we have already announced.”
The support package will also pump an additional $2.5 billion into protecting Queensland jobs and businesses.
Deputy Premier and Treasurer Jackie Trad said the government has taken on what industry and businesses have said, directing funding into a number of different areas.
“For small and medium businesses and large businesses specifically impacted by COVID-19, we will refund two months worth of payroll tax,” said Ms Trad.
“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.”
“We’re waiving liquor licensing 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.”
The Package also includes up to $500 million to assist workers who lose their job or income and to help them find jobs in the industries such as health care, agriculture, food production, transport, cleaning and mining.
