The Queensland Liberal National Party (LNP) state council has called for the abolition of payroll tax by 2032, as part of a series of resolutions discussed at a party gathering over the weekend. This motion is among 26 resolutions slated for debate at the LNP’s state council meeting held at the Seaworld Resort Conference Centre in Brisbane.
The proposal originated from the Oodgeroo branch, led by former federal Liberal MP and current assistant finance minister Amanda Stoker. It advocates for a “phased reduction” of payroll tax, decreasing it from a maximum of 4.95 per cent to 2.5 per cent during the current term, with a complete abolition planned for a potential second term if the party is re-elected.
Discussions surrounding payroll tax are particularly significant as they reflect the LNP’s broader strategy to position itself as a pro-business party. Recently, Premier David Crisafulli indicated a willingness to explore comprehensive tax reforms, despite his government initially promising only minor changes while in opposition.
The state council meeting commenced with a welcome function featuring former Prime Minister Tony Abbott, and included participation from various LNP officials, elected politicians, and executive members. Among the notable attendees were federal Liberal leader Sussan Ley and Nationals leader David Littleproud, who addressed ongoing challenges regarding Ley’s leadership and the party’s stance on net zero policies.
While the resolutions proposed by the council are not binding on parliamentary actions, several call for direct engagement from the Crisafulli government. Speaking to the ABC, Crisafulli described payroll tax as a “disincentive” for businesses to hire staff, emphasizing the need for a responsible fiscal approach. Currently, payroll tax is expected to account for the largest share of state tax revenue this financial year, projected at $7.8 billion, or 29.4 per cent of total revenue.
The resolution to eliminate payroll tax passed during the meeting, alongside other proposals under consideration. These include calls for the state and federal governments to criminalise the desecration of the national flag, as well as a contentious proposal advocating for the sale of the ABC and SBS, and the establishment of a regional-only media corporation. Another debated resolution seeks to restrict access to female toilets and change rooms to “biological women and girls” only, while stipulating that male facilities be reserved for “biological men and boys,” with exceptions for children up to eight years of age.
In a social media post, the Young LNP highlighted the importance of prioritising “values over ideology,” as articulated by Abbott, Crisafulli, and Deputy Premier Jarrod Bleijie during the opening night of the council event.
Looking ahead, Crisafulli is scheduled to present his state leader’s report on Sunday morning, as the remaining resolutions are debated. The outcomes of this weekend’s discussions may shape the LNP’s policy direction and electoral strategy in the lead-up to future state elections.
