Public Transport Discounts and Car Registration Reductions Included in Queensland’s Latest Budget
The government has boosted first home buyer grants in an attempt to attract young families.
Vehicle registration discounts and a temporary reduction in public transport fares to 50 cents have been included in Queensland’s 2024-25 state budget.
Under the budget announced by the Miles Labor government on June 11, cost-cutting measures have been introduced to address a $3 billion deficit for the year.
Business owners and private motorists in Queensland will benefit from a 20 percent reduction in car registration fees for light vehicles.
Additionally, the government has raised the threshold for first home owner concessions on properties valued between $500,000 and $700,000, with the concession tapering off at $800,000.
The incentives also extend to the first home vacant land concession, with the threshold increasing from $250,000 to $350,000 and tapering off at $500,000.
To further support families, FairPlay sports vouchers for children aged five to 17 will be increased.
Vouchers will be raised from $150 to $200, and the number of vouchers available will be increased to 20,000.
Annual funding for the Bruce Highway will increase, with this year’s budget allocating funds for advanced flood alert systems.
An additional $250 million will be allocated annually to the highway from 2027-28.
Transport and Main Roads Minister Bart Mellish emphasized that the extra funding is aimed at reducing congestion and improving safety on the Bruce Highway.
The government’s goal with the 2024-25 budget, according to Mr. Miles, is to reduce the cost of living for Queenslanders.
In a statement, Mr. Miles expressed his intentions to provide financial relief by implementing initiatives such as the registration discount for light car owners. He emphasized the budget’s focus on cost-of-living relief.
The plan to freeze government fees and charges will come at a cost of $180 million to the budget, and households will receive $1,000 assistance with electricity costs.
Economist John Humphreys stated that there seems to be no economic justification for the budget deficit, implying political motivations in the run-up to the October election.
On the other hand, the opposition leader’s spokesperson expressed support for financial relief but criticized Labor’s approach, accusing them of introducing measures for political gain before the election.
The full budget was unveiled on June 11.
