CEQ inputs to Cost of Living Summit

Not-for-profit remote store operator Community Enterprise Queensland (CEQ) has highlighted a range of measures it has undertaken to alleviate customer cost pressures in the wake of the Queensland Government Cost of Living Summit on Monday this week.

regions. That’s exactly what this package delivers.

“If we can reduce the cost of getting goods and services into these remote parts of Queensland, we will reduce financial pressures on local households and businesses.”

Transport and Main Roads Minister Mark Bailey said his department conducted a review into remote community freight systems last year, which identified the need for a more targeted, sustainable approach to managing freight disadvantage across the state.

“This funding will target the high price of freight that is fueling cost-of-living pressures, delivering on a package of work that addresses the unique challenges of transporting essential goods to these remote regions,” he said.

CEQ Chief Executive Officer Michael Dykes said the Cost of Living Summit was a great opportunity to listen and actively contribute based on CEQ’s retail expertise, and knowledge of the region and its cost drivers.

“Like everyone else, we are concerned about the current rate of inflation and the impact this is having on the communities we serve,” Mr Dykes said.

“Average freight costs have increased 12 per cent in two years, and CEQ does not raise our prices to cover freight costs, we absorb them over the entire business.

“We also have cost burdens not faced by other store operators, such as requirements for satellite IT back-up and back-up power generators, with the most recent generator costing $500,000 at our main Waiben store.”

He said the summit allowed them to work with other key stakeholders to find solutions for the benefit of local communities across the Torres Strait and Cape York.

For more information on CEQ, visit www.ceqld.org.au

Office of Commissioner, Meriba Omasker Kaziw Kazipa

Cultural Support Officers from the Office of the Commissioner, Meriba Omasker Kaziw Kazipa are visiting to meet with community about the Meriba Omasker Kaziw Kazipa (Torres Strait Islander Traditional Child Rearing Practice) Act 2020. To arrange a confidential meeting with Cultural Support Officers, Elsie Seriat or Kaleb Mabo, please call 1800 571 102 (free call).

The Act recognises Torres Strait Islander lore in Western law and establishes a process for the legal recognition of traditional child rearing practice.

Elsie and Kaleb will be available to assist with Cultural Recognition Order applications and answer any questions you may have about the process.

All community members are welcome. If you would like to arrange a confidential meeting, please call 1800 571 102 or email: office@ocmokk.qld.gov.au.

Courthouse, Bamaga

Courthouse, Bamaga

Courthouse, Bamaga

Call

Monday 27 March12 noon – 5pm

Tuesday 28 March 9am – 5pm

Wednesday 29 March 9am – 5pm

Subject to change due to unexpected events

For more information visit www.ocmokk.qld.gov.au