We need a waste strategy not just a waste tax: CEO

THE business community is nervous after hearing of the potential introduction of a waste levy to stop New South Wales dumpers trucking rubbish into Queensland because, unlike our southern neighbours, we do not have a tax on waste.

In 2017 the Palaszczuk Government commissioned an investigation into interstate waste, following revelations about waste being transported into Queensland from southern states and the government is now moving to act on the recommendations of the report. Last month a waste stakeholder advisory group was established by the state government and held its first meeting to start working through the development of a waste strategy and potential tax. Thankfully our colleagues at the Queensland Chamber of Commerce and Industry have a seat at this table to represent businesses and the chamber network state wide.

Initial concerns across the business community at the proposal of a waste tax included the Property Council of Australia citing an increase in the cost of building a new home of $3000, calls that such a tax should not be unfairly levied on regional businesses across Queensland to address what largely is a southeast corner problem and the fact that SME’s with no choice but to pass the tax onto consumers would see householders Queensland-wide affected.

Representing businesses, the Queensland Chamber of Commerce and Industry will be lobbying for the creation of a waste policy in conjunction with industry that will consider all levers and not just the introduction of a levy on businesses in isolation.

Waste management is indeed a challenging issue for all levels of government, industry and consumers alike. It is not an issue that can be borne by business alone but requires a clear strategy with an action plan that is actually going to make a difference.

Talking with a number of our members here in Toowoomba, there is a genuine concern among businesses that they will be slugged with another tax putting even further pressure on already tight margins and for no clear outcome.

I agree there is no doubt the issue of interstate waste dumping in Queensland needs to be addressed, but we need a waste strategy not just a waste tax in isolation that unfairly targets the business community.

I will be keeping in close contact with the Queensland Chamber of Commerce and Industry on this issue – Toowoomba businesses I welcome your input.