Red tape reforms for the economy and community groups

red-tape

Three of Queensland’s four pillar economy drivers and the state’s hardworking community groups will all receive a huge boost from just one red tape busting Bill introduced in Parliament this week.

Attorney-General and Minister for Justice Jarrod Bleijie said reforms to the QLeave scheme would generate significant savings for the construction, resources and tourism industries.

“It’s a great win for workers and business, delivering on the LNP Government’s promise to supercharge the economy, cut red tape and revitalise frontline services,” Mr Bleijie said.

“Under the Construction and Tourism (Red Tape Reduction) and Other Legislation Bill, the QLeave levy rate for construction and building projects will be reduced from 0.30 per cent to 0.25 per cent.

“0.05 per cent may not sound like much but it will equate to an estimated $24 million in savings for the construction and resources industries.

“Greater savings mean greater economic growth and job security for workers across Queensland.

“QLeave ensures building and construction workers have access to paid leave, regardless of whether they work on different projects or for different employers.

“Under our reforms, workers will retain every single one of their QLeave benefits.

“Tourism will also benefit. Under a national agreement, Queensland is doing its bit to deregulate the travel industry and give agents more freedom to compete with the growing online tourism market.

“Bricks and mortar agents are subject to more costs and conditions than their online competitors, making it nearly impossible for them to compete.

“Instead of a state licensing regime, the Australian Federation of Travel Agents is developing a voluntary accreditation scheme which will require certain conduct standards, proof of financial solvency and the holding of public liability and professional indemnity insurance.”

Mr Bleijie said the Bill would also benefit Queensland’s hard working community groups.

“Queensland community groups will also be big beneficiaries through the development of a new, simple, one-stop process to apply for Community Benefit Fund grants,” he said.

“Previously, our hardworking community groups had to wade through four separate funding programs, each with different grant limits, criteria and budget requirements depending on which grant a group was applying for. They will soon be able to apply for up to $35,000 with just one application.

“These are all more positive steps towards the Government’s commitment to reducing red tape by 20% in the next six years and making Queensland a great state with great opportunity.”