More than 6000 farmers, businesses, tourism operators, and community and sports clubs, won't have to pay state land rent for six months under a series of measures to protect Queensland businesses and jobs.
Natural Resources Minister Dr Anthony Lynham said he had obtained the approval of his Excellency the Governor Paul de Jersey to waive more than $33.8 million in State land rent for 1 April to 30 September to help support business during the emergency.
"Business across the state are doing it tough, and not having to pay land rent is one way we can help them and keep Queenslanders in jobs," he said.
"With the shutdown of travel across the world, our tourism sector particularly has been hit hard.
"There's more than 90 tourism lessees across the state who hopefully can breathe a little easier now with savings on average of more than $30,000 each."
Farmers on pastoral lessees will save on average around $3300 and some local recreation clubs will save upwards of $4500 over the six months.
Lessees don't have to apply and those who have already paid their rent for 1 April to 30 June 2020 will receive a refund or if requested, a credit.
In situations where lessees have entered into sublease arrangements with another commercial business – the lessee is expected to pass on the appropriate amount of land rent savings to the sublessees.
Land rent relief applies to Land Act lessees, licensees or permit to occupy holders who conduct a business on state land. It comes on top of $2.5 billion in measures already announced by the Palaszczuk Government to support Queensland businesses and jobs.
This includes:
- payroll tax refunds and deferrals
- relief for businesses renting government premises
- a worker displacement program to help unemployed people get jobs in sectors facing shortages," he said.
- a $500 electricity bill rebate for Queensland sole traders and small and medium sized businesses
- liquor licensing fee waivers for businesses that have had to close
- rebates for marina and jetty fees
- industry support package to assist large businesses ensuring they will be able to scale up when economic activity improves.
