Freight Assistance Scheme applications now open to FNQ communities

Retailers in some Far North communities can now apply to participate in the Queensland government scheme set to bring a discount to cash registers.

Retailers in some Far North communities can now apply to participate in the Queensland government scheme set to bring a discount to cash registers.

Retailers located in the Northern Peninsula, Torres Strait and Gulf of Carpentaria regions can now apply to participate in the Queensland Government Remote Communities Freight Assistance Scheme.

Under the scheme participating retailers will apply a discount at the cash register on eligible essential goods, to assist in reducing freight-related cost of living pressures.

“We’re standing alongside communities in the Far North who have felt the impacts of increased freight costs and supply challenges,” Transport and Main Roads Minister Bart Mellish said.

“I’d like to thank (Queensland Rural and Industry Development Authority) for working with the Miles Government to implement this scheme, there has never been a more necessary time for this to be rolled out.

“By applying the benefit at the cash register at participating retailers, the weekly grocery shop will be more affordable for residents living within the Northern Peninsula, Torres Strait and Gulf region.”

Residents can now apply to participate in the Remote Communities Freight Assistance Scheme Picture: supplied

Communities will benefit from a 5.2 per cent discount applied at the cash register on essential goods, such as fruit and vegetables, fresh meat and dairy, frozen goods and groceries.

There are some key exceptions such as alcohol, tobacco, soft drinks containing sugar, confectionary, hardware, clothing, fuel, furniture and whitegoods.

“The more retailers participating in the scheme ensures more people living in the Northern Peninsula, Torres Strait and Gulf region can feel the effects of lower prices at the cash register and benefit from the assistance package,” Mr Mellish said.

“I would like to thank local councils for participating in the consultation process and openly sharing their views.

“This has provided an understanding of freight issues throughout remote communities in this region and about how freight-related cost of living pressures may be best addressed through the freight funding package.

“Where possible, I encourage retailers within the region to go to the QRIDA website and start the application process.”

Member for Cook Cynthia Lui welcomed the subsidy scheme.

“Our remote and regional communities continue to be impacted by high freight costs and supply challenges. This adds to the cost-of-living pressures in these communities,” she said.

“We need to ensure this benefit is felt by local residents and business owners to help get them back on their feet as quickly as possible.”

Retail stores wishing to apply can go to the QRIDA website now to start the application process. Visit qrida.qld.gov.au

Originally published as Freight Assistance Scheme applications now open to FNQ communities