Payroll tax relief for Queensland businesses

SMALL and medium businesses and large businesses specifically impacted by COVID-19 will be refunded two months’ worth of payroll tax.

Deputy Premier and Treasurer Jackie Trad announced the measures as part of an additional $2.5 billion package designed to protect Queensland jobs and businesses.

“I’ve been engaging with Queensland industry and business and we’ve taken on board what they’ve said,” Ms Trad said.

“Additionally, we’re giving small and medium businesses a three-month payroll tax holiday, and a further six-month payroll tax deferral for any of these Queensland businesses.

“Combined with the payroll tax deferrals we’ve already announced, it means no Queensland business impacted by COVID-19 will need to make a payroll tax payment this year.

“That $2.5 billion includes a package of up to $500 million to assist workers who lose their job or income and to help them find jobs in the industries that are vital to getting us through this crisis – health care, agriculture, food production, transport, cleaning and mining.

“We’re waiving liquor licensing fees for venues that have had to close their doors, providing rent relief for businesses who rent premises from the state government and giving sole traders, small and medium businesses a $500 rebate on their power bill for this year.”

Minister for Employment and Small Business Shannon Fentiman said the stimulus package was in addition to recently announced initiatives, including the dedicated small business hotline (1300 654 687) which has seen around 2000 business contacts so far.

“We know our businesses are doing it incredibly tough right now,” Ms Fentiman said.

“On top of our earlier measures including $500 million in concessional loans and our initial coronavirus assistance package last month, this takes our support package for Queensland workers and businesses to more than $3 billion.

“We will keep talking to businesses and unions and continue to work with the Federal Government to see what further measures can be taken.”

An online portal for businesses to apply for payroll tax relief can be accessed via www.business.qld.gov.au