Summit to address cost of living pressures in Torres Strait Islands and Northern Peninsula Area

The Torres Strait Islands and Northern Peninsula Area Cost of Living Summit is fast approaching, with preparations well underway for the event being held on Waiben this coming Monday, 20 March.

“The Summit will directly address the priorities, opportunities and community feedback resulting from the Queensland Government Community Cabinet, also held on Thursday Island, back in September 2022,” local MP Cynthia Lui said.

Ms Lui was expected to co-chair the Summit with Transport and Main Roads Minister Mark Bailey.

She said the Summit would explore key cost of living themes, based on issues raised by the community.

They included:

• Freight services to the region;

• Marine and transport infrastructure;

• Remote energy;

• Food security; and

• Housing availability and affordability

She said the issues reflected the unique and complex challenges faced by locals, and invitees to the Summit were drawn from a broad cross-section of community and businesses, with support from relevant government agencies and service providers.

“I look forward to meeting with local community members to discuss concerns and potential opportunities with several Queensland Government

Ministers, including government champion for the Torres Strait, the Attorney-General and Minister for Justice, Minister for Women and Minister for the Prevention of Domestic and Family Violence, Hon Shannon Fentiman MP,” she said.

“The Torres Cape Indigenous Council Alliance (TCICA) has also been invited to participate, given its advocacy for broader Cape and Gulf interests.

“There are still a few spots available for anyone interested in attending.

“The cost of living is a concern for all Queenslanders.

“Communities across the region can be assured they have been heard, and the Queensland Government is acting.”

To register your interest, please contact the office on 4223 1100 or write to cook@parliament.qld.gov.au