Food and freight tax to hit Maranoa hard

Member for Maranoa, David Littleproud says the Labor Government’s Budget has done little to combat the cost of living crisis for people in regional areas, but has added new taxes to our region’s agricultural and transport businesses.

“The success of our resource and agricultural sectors was a big reason this government was able to post a budget surplus,” Mr Littleproud said.

“Now our farmers are being taxed to pay for their international competitors to bring their products into this country.

“Meanwhile, family-run transport companies are also being stung with a truckie tax of six per cent compounded each year.

The budget also failed to adequately address the chronic shortages in child care, aged care and health care that regional areas are facing.

“Both of these measures are unjust.

“This is not to mention the billions of dollars ripped out of the bush in the form of vital infrastructure projects, such as proposed upgrades to the Cunningham Highway, Outback Way and Warrego Highway.

“Labor has also confirmed that the Government is now forcing local communities to wait two years to access regional grant programs. This means local councils and community organisations won’t be able to access grants for infrastructure until 2024.

“It is now more important than ever that we continue to work hard and ensure Maranoa gets its fair share.” Mr Littleproud said.