The Palaszczuk Government has announced extra tax relief worth $50 million for Queensland pubs and clubs grappling with the effects of coronavirus.

Attorney-General and Minister for Justice Yvette D’Ath said from April, the State’s 1,100 pubs and clubs would get a three-month deferral on gaming machine taxes.

“Queensland pubs and clubs need our help to get through the coronavirus crisis,” Mrs D’Ath said.

“They’re the heart and soul of communities throughout the State and we’re determined to help them through these challenging times.

“From April through to June, we’re delivering a three-month gaming tax deferral for pubs and clubs.

“These tax deferrals are worth around $50 million in yet another important financial lifeline we’re delivering to the sector.

“In addition to this, around 50 licensees who have already paid their gaming machine taxes for March will have a total of $1.4 million returned to them.

“These measures come on top of the $22.7 million the government has already waived in liquor licensing renewal fees for 2020/21.”

Mrs D’Ath said the latest taxation relief for pubs and clubs were part of the broader package to help support business and economic activity, including:

* payroll tax deferrals and refunds;

* low interest loans; and

* energy rebates.

“Going to your local pub or club isn’t an option right now, but when this crisis is over we want these community hubs to be there for Queenslanders,” she said.

“We’re providing the practical support pubs and clubs need to get through this crisis.”

The Commissioner for Liquor and Gaming will also examine options to allow for flexibility in how the gaming machine tax is to the repaid, including instalment plans.

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