GP Payroll Tax and First Homebuyer Stamp Duty Scrapped in Queensland
Queensland government removes GP payroll tax and first homebuyer stamp duty, easing financial burdens for families and new buyers
Queensland, Australia, GP Payroll Tax, First Homebuyer Stamp Duty, Cost of Living
Queensland: Big news from the Sunshine State! The government just scrapped a tax that was supposed to make GP visits pricier and a barrier for first-time homebuyers. This move is part of their promise after winning the recent election.
During the last parliament sitting, the Liberal National government got rid of what they called a “patient’s tax.” They promised to do this after their election win on October 26, and they’re sticking to their word.
This payroll tax was meant to hit general practitioners, which the government said would make seeing a doctor more expensive and could even end bulk billing in Queensland. That was a big deal during the election, especially after some scare tactics from both the former Labor government and the LNP.
Queensland Treasurer David Janetzki mentioned that getting rid of these taxes will help families with their living costs. By the end of the campaign, both parties agreed to ditch the tax that was set to kick in at the end of the financial year.
Back in 2021, a tribunal in New South Wales decided that tenant GPs were actually employees, which led to some national changes. The previous Labor government had even set up an amnesty in 2023, giving practices a break from the tax until June 2025.
Now that the tax is off the table, the LNP is celebrating, saying it will help ease the cost-of-living crunch. Treasurer Janetzki said, “By axing Labor’s Patient’s Tax, we are protecting bulk billing for Queenslanders.”
The Royal Australian College of General Practitioners in Queensland is also happy about this change. Dr. Cath Hester, the chair, said it’s a huge relief for practice owners and patients who really value their GP relationships.
But that’s not all! The government also got rid of stamp duty on new house and land packages for first-home buyers. This is another win for the LNP after their election victory.
For those looking to buy in Brisbane’s north, this could mean saving around $37,000! Janetzki said, “Scrapping first home buyer stamp duty on new builds provides real savings and puts the Great Australian Dream back within reach.”
This news comes as the government’s new laws about crime passed, meaning kids as young as 10 could face serious charges. The Queensland Parliament will be back in session in February.