The Queensland Government has today passed laws to establish statutory roles for a state Night-Life Economy Commissioner, Food Farmers’ Commissioner and Cross-Border Commissioner.
While each commissioner will have a dedicated and unique portfolio, they will all work closely with industry and community to grow and support Queensland’s economy, jobs and lifestyle, said Premier, Steven Miles.
“My government is listening to Queenslanders and delivering,” said Mr Miles.
“We listened to small businesses in the live music and arts industry when they said they were doing it tough, we heard loud and clear the struggles of our farmers and shoppers with supermarket pricing, and we understand the unique challenges of Queenslanders living on our border.
“This is why we are establishing three specialised commissioner roles to take action and drive positive change for Queensland in these areas.”
The Queensland Night-Life Economy Commissioner role was announced in June to work with businesses, live music venues, and entertainment precincts to create a vibrant and safe nightlife environment.
“Queensland needs someone with the vision and energy to harness the incredible potential of our nightlife – someone who can amplify the unique spirit of our communities – and turn Queensland into the ultimate night-time destination,” said Minister for Employment and Small Business, Lance McCallum.
“We’re so serious, we’re legislating it, as an urgent priority. With our new law, and this new role, the Miles Labor Government is not just strengthening the Sunshine State, we’re making it the Starlit State too.”
The Queensland Food Farmers’ Commissioner came as a recommendation from the recent Supermarket Pricing Select Committee and will assist producers to navigate supplier arrangements with supermarkets.
“The Miles Government backs our primary producers, and while we’re supporting them, we’re also supporting Queenslanders at the supermarket checkout,” said Minister for Agricultural Industry Development and Fisheries and Minister for Rural Communities, Mark Furner.
“We will continue to fight every day for a better deal for shoppers and primary producers by standing up to the major supermarkets.”
The Cross-Border Commissioner was also announced in June 2024 and will assist to resolve local issues arising along the border in partnership with the New South Wales Cross Border Commission and other Queensland Government agencies.
It is expected the statutory roles will be filled in the coming months.
