Media Statements

The Newman Government has been ranked Australia’s highest overall performing State Government in a Property Council of Australia survey.

Treasurer Tim Nicholls today welcomed the survey, saying the results reflected the positive impact the Newman Government’s policies were having on industry and the economy.

“The survey indicates there was a strong upswing in residents’ rating of our performance,” Mr Nicholls said.

“Brisbane ranked second in regards to the Newman Government’s performance in planning and managing urban growth. It was also ranked Australia’s sixth most liveable city.

“The Property Council says the results reflect the ‘significant work of the Government in its first year in office’.

“In fact, the Queensland Government’s overall performance ranking rose from 62 per cent in 2011 to 65 per cent in 2012.

“I also note that ABS Building Approvals data released today shows that the total number of dwelling approvals (trend) in Queensland rose 1.2 per cent in January. This marks the first increase in dwelling approvals since mid-2012.”

Mr Nicholls said the Newman Government was elected a little under a year ago to grow the four pillars of the Queensland economy, including the property and construction industry.

“We reintroduced the Principal Place of Residence Concession, saving families up to $7,000 when purchasing a home,” he said.

“As part of the 2012-13 Budget we implemented a $15,000 Great Start Grant, which was all about stimulating activity in Queensland’s construction industry.

“We’re reforming state planning legislation to streamline processes by allowing developers to deal with one single office, thus reducing the complexity and increasing the certainty of development outcomes.

“We’re making the process of buying and selling homes easier by cutting the onerous and costly red tape and regulation that impedes business.”

He said Projects Queensland, the recently-created Treasury body, was working in partnership with the private sector to deliver infrastructure projects more cost effectively.

“Projects like the new 1 William Street building will create 1,000 on-site jobs each year during the construction phase,” Mr Nicholls said.

“While we have come a long way, there is undoubtedly still work to be done.

“We will continue to work to make Queensland the ideal place to live, work and invest – a great State of great opportunity.”

The Property Council survey also indicates residents want the Gillard Government to invest more in major infrastructure.   

[ENDS] 4 March 2013

Media Contact: Treasurer’s office 07 3224 6900