News
20 January, 2025
Taxes axed to ease cost of living
The State Government is delivering significant cost of living relief for Queenslanders by removing two taxes that have placed a burden on families and first home buyers.
The abolition of Labor’s Patients’ Tax will ensure Queenslanders no longer pay extra when visiting their general practitioner, alleviating pressure on local health services and emergency departments. This reform aims to support bulk billing and ease healthcare costs for Queensland families.
Additionally, the State Government is scrapping stamp duty on new builds for first home buyers, effective from 1 May 2025. This move is set to benefit thousands of Queenslanders, with projections indicating an additional 800 new homes could be delivered due to the increased demand. Eligible first home buyers will save $9,096 on a median-priced house-and-land package.
Treasurer and Minister for Home Ownership, David Janetzki, highlighted the Government’s commitment to easing the cost of living. “These reforms will unlock the door to home ownership for more Queenslanders, providing significant savings for first-time buyers,” Mr. Janetzki said.
The State Government has also taken action to unlock church and charity-owned land for community housing and allow first homeowners to rent out rooms without financial penalties.
The Real Estate Institute of Queensland (REIQ) welcomed these measures, noting that removing financial barriers would support first home buyers and help address Queensland’s rental supply issues.
