The Queensland Government has passed the Queensland Productivity Commission 2024 Bill, in what it says is a key step to restore productivity, improve living standards and drive economic growth across the state.
The Productivity Commission will research solutions for pressing economic challenges facing Queensland and provide the Government with advice and recommendations to address those key issues, said Treasurer, David Janetzki.
The Treasurer said an independent Productivity Commission was crucial to secure the State’s economic future.
“The Crisafulli Government has delivered the Productivity Commission as promised, to drive down cost pressures and drive-up productivity as part of a fresh start for Queensland,” he said.
“We need to cut unnecessary red tape to encourage creativity and innovation and build a highly skilled public service to deliver better and more services.
“The Productivity Commission model has been proven to have a real impact on government-led economic improvement both at a national level and in other states.”
The first order of business for the Commission will be to undertake a comprehensive review of Queensland’s construction sector in the wake of revelations Best Practice Industry Conditions were adding up to 25% to the cost of major projects, said the Treasurer.
The Commission will also deliver Queensland’s first Intergenerational Equity Report, outlining the key issues Queenslanders face across generational lines, and the long-term policy solutions needed.
The Commission will officially be established upon the commencement of the Queensland Productivity Commission Act 2025, with appointments to be announced shortly.
The Bill supports the transition of existing staff from the Office of Productivity and Red Tape Reduction within Queensland Treasury to the new Commission.
