Member for Burnett Stephen Bennett said pubs and clubs in remote areas have been let down by the Palaszczuk Labor Government after they blocked sensible LNP amendments to licence fees.
“Pubs in and around the Burnett electorate are often the meeting place for the masses,” he said.
“In places like Bucca, Avondale, Yandaran and Cordalba, our local pubs are an important fixture within the community, bringing together people from all walks of life.
“Reducing fees would go a long way to safeguarding these pubs into the future though tough times so that they can continue to support the community.
“It is more than disappointing to see the LNP’s amendment that would have ensured clubs and pubs in remote or drought-stricken areas receive licence fee relief, shoved under the carpet.
“Our South Kolan, Lowmead and Baffle Creek publicans and community deserve better than the lack of respect and disregard they’re seeing from the Labor Government.
Leader of the Opposition Deb Frecklington said the LNP fought to ensure the laws would cover venues in drought-declared communities, not just very remote parts of the state.
“We also want to remove Labor’s cap on the size of the club to be eligible for fee relief,” she said.
“This sensible amendment was the right way to extend concessions to rural Queensland communities struggling through drought.
“The amendment was blocked by the Palaszczuk Labor Government, which will sadly restrict many venues from accessing this fee relief.
“We want our regions to thrive, but we’ve once again seen Labor neglect the bush.”
27/02/19