Fuel tax will hit FNQ more than most
FNQ motorists and tourism will be hit hard by the Bligh Government’s new fuel tax that’s pushed up bowser prices at least 9.2 cents a litre, the State Opposition said today.
In Cairns this morning, LNP Leader John-Paul Langbroek said Labor’s local Member Desley Boyle, as Tourism Minister was adamant cheaper fuel gave Queensland a “competitive advantage” in attracting tourists, but not any more.
”Desley Boyle stated her Government was committed to helping ensure Queensland’s appeal as a ‘drive tourism destination’ remained strong …that is up till the vote on fuel tax in Parliament,” Mr Langbroek said.
”Ms Boyle and Labor’s Member for Cook Jason O’Brien had more important things to do when than vote in Parliament on the fuel tax ….they were both a no-show.
”That shows to me the duplicity of a local Member and former Minister for Tourism, who would know only too well the impact of her Government’s decision.
”Desley Boyle in her answer to a Question on Notice late last year* stated cheaper fuel was vital to Queensland tourism because around 70 per cent of all visitors travel by car.”
Mr Langbroek said Cairns and FNQ and tourism had been sold down the river by Desley Boyle and Jason O’Brien who had put their own political interests ahead of the people and the small businesses they were paid to represent.
*Answer to Question on Notice No. 1325 attached
Question on Notice
No. 1325
Asked on 11 September 2008
MR MESSENGER asked the Minister for Tourism, Regional Development and Industry (MS BOYLE) -
QUESTION:
Will she detail any assessments that her departments have undertaken to
determine the potential impacts of the Treasurer’s proposed changes to the
fuel rebate scheme on the Queensland tourist industry, and specifically on
motoring related tourism?
ANSWER:
I thank the Member for Burnett for the question.
The proposed changes to the Fuel Subsidy Scheme are to ensure
Queensland motorists receive the full benefit of the 8.354 cents per litre fuel
subsidy. The upgraded scheme is aimed at putting the money directly into
motorist’s pockets.
Rising fuel prices are of particular concern for Queensland tourism
destinations which rely on the drive tourism market. Drive tourism constitutes
a large proportion of all domestic travel in Queensland and is especially
important to our regions where around 70 percent of visitors travel by car.
To ensure visiting motorists are also better off while visiting Queensland,
interstate and and international license holders will also be eligible for the
subsidy.
The Office of State Revenue has held face to face meetings with industry
associations including the Queensland Tourism Industry Council to discuss
the proposed changes. The tourism industry was encouraged to make written
submissions on the proposed changes.
The Queensland Government consultation process on the Fuel Subsidy
Scheme closed on 30 September 2008 and the submissions are currently
being considered by the Government.
The Bligh Government’s fuel subsidy of 8.354 cents per litre is helping define
our State’s competitive advantage by cushioning the impact of rising fuel
prices for motorists who choose to holiday in Queensland.
The Bligh Government’s commitment to providing petrol price relief to
motorists will help ensure Queensland’s appeal as a drive tourism destination
remains strong.