9 September 2024 UPDATE: The 20 per cent discount came into effect at the cash register at participating stores on Monday 9 September, 2024.
Premier Steven Miles is doing what matters for Queensland’s remote communities – today announcing a major uplift in the Remote Communities Freight Assistance Scheme.
The discount on essential goods will increase from 5.2 per cent to 20 per cent.
Member for Cook, Cynthia Lui, has been advocating for an increase to the discount since receiving community feedback that more needed to be done.
The cost of essentials, like milk, bread, fruit and vegetables and detergent will be reduced by 20 per cent in Cape York, Torres Strait and the Gulf – reducing inflation on the cost of goods, generally associated with freight.
For example, a one litre bottle of detergent in the region can cost up to 12 per cent higher than that charged at a similar size retail store in Cairns.
If the bottle of detergent cost $3.46 at full price in the region, it would come down to $2.77 with the subsidy applied.
A two-litre bottle of milk, that may cost, on average, $5.40 at full price in the region, would come down to $4.32 with the subsidy applied.
The scheme is about driving down the cost of essential goods by putting money directly back in the pockets of locals at the checkout.
About 32 retailers across the Cape York, Torres Strait and Gulf regions have signed up to participate in the scheme.
The 20 per cent discount will come into effect later this year, after engagement with retailers.
The government will continue to engage with retailers on effective implementation, and to encourage additional retails to participate in the scheme.
The discount excludes alcohol, tobacco, soft drinks confectionery, hardware, clothing, fuel, furniture and whitegoods.
More information available here.
Premier Steven Miles said Queensland had some of the most remote communities anywhere in the world and it was important to provide support.
“That includes driving down the cost of essentials like bread, milk, fruit and veg, and meats," said Premier Miles.
“The 20 per cent discount will be applied directly at the checkout, putting money back in the pockets of local families.
“Local member Cynthia Lui has been a champion for her community in fighting for this uplift – I’m proud to have listened and acted to do what matters for Queenslanders.”
Member for Cook, Cynthia Lui said the announcement was fantastic news for residents in Cape York, Torres Strait and Gulf regions.
“By increasing the subsidy to 20 per cent, residents will receive even more cost of living relief at local shops," said Ms Lui.
“The cost of freight to these communities means that the cost of everyday, essential items is far more than comparable items in larger cities and towns.
“I am proud to be part of a government that delivers practical cost of living relief directly to some of Queensland’s most vulnerable families.”
Deputy Premier and Treasurer Cameron Dick said the increased freight subsidy will mean people in Cape York, Torres Strait and the Gulf region will have more money in the bank or food on the table each week.
“The Miles Labor Government knows Queenslanders are feeling the pinch from the national cost-of-living pressures and this is only exacerbated in remote communities.
“The Premier and I made it our mission to make life easier for all Queenslanders and this increase in freight subsidy is one way we were determined to help.”
Transport and Main Roads and Digital Services Minister Bart Mellish urged remote retailers to get on board with the scheme if they had not already.
“The Miles Government is doing everything in its power to reduce the cost of living for Queenslanders, including Queenslanders in the most remote parts of our state.
“The Member for Cook Cynthia Lui has been outstanding in her strong advocacy to increase the subsidy for her community and this increase to 20 per cent will have a big impact for locals.
"By applying an increased discount percentage of 20 per cent at the cash register at participating retailers from August this year, the weekly grocery shop will be even more affordable for residents living within the Cape York, Torres Strait and Gulf regions”.
"I encourage retailers not participating in the Scheme within the region to go to the QRIDA website, search for the Remote Communities Freight Assistance Scheme, and investigate their eligibility to apply”.
