As we head into the Christmas festive season Id like to take the opportunity to wish everyone a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year! It really is a time to pause, look back on the year, and cherish the people and moments that matter most. Whether it’s sharing a meal, exchanging gifts, or simply enjoying each other’s company, these traditions remind us of the importance of gratitude and connection.
Business Growth Fund
Registrations of interest are now open for our Business Growth Fund, offering eligible small and family businesses $50,000 to $75,000 to invest in specialised equipment that will take your business to the next stage of growth. A minimum 50% co-contribution is required. Business Growth Fund can support eligible small and family businesses to invest in Advanced manufacturing technology, 3D printing, Robotic automation, Assistive tech hubs, Specialist construction equipment and more. Successful applicants will receive funding in three milestone payments, supporting projects as they progress. ROI closes at 5pm on Friday 30 January 2026.
Find out more at business.qld.gov.au/growthfund
Refreshed QBCC board
The government has appointed 5 new members as part of its work to modernise the states construction regulator and improve experiences for homeowners and licensees.
The refreshed Board brings deep experience across planning, infrastructure delivery, governance, insurance, and frontline customer service – experience that will be critical as the QBCC undertakes its transformation program to become a more transparent, responsive and consistent customer-friendly regulator.
Review GST flaws
The Queensland Productivity Commission will conduct a review of the economic impacts of the GST system. The Federal Government’s decision to strip a record $2.3 billion in GST revenue from Queensland taxpayers this financial year, and $5.3 billion over the next three, has compounded the significant challenges left by the former Labor Government.
Over the past decade, Queensland’s GST revenue has grown by only 28 per cent, while GST revenue received by New South Wales, Victoria and Western Australia has grown by 58 per cent, 118 per cent and 317 per cent respectively over the same period. If Queensland’s GST revenue had grown in line with national GST payments it would this year have been worth $22.7 billion – $6.1 billion higher than reality. The existing methodology used to calculate GST also penalises the State for developing its resources industry, while leaving Queensland to also foot the bill for the policy failures of New South Wales and Victoria during COVID-19. The QPC will report back with an interim report in February, before finalising its report in April. We’re simply asking that Queensland receives its fair share of GST so we can deliver a better lifestyle through a stronger economy.
Our office will be closed from 19th December 2025 and will re-open 12th January 2026 assist you with any enquiries as normal.
Phone: 07 5600 0100
Email: mermaid.beach@parliament.qld.gov.au
Address: 1/2434 Gold Coast Highway, Mermaid Beach, 4218, QLD
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/raystevens.mp
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/raystevens.mp
Cheers Ray
