Greetings Members,
Happy New Year! I hope everyone had a chance to enjoy a relaxing long weekend during the Australia Day break. With the work year now in full swing, it’s encouraging to see businesses up and running with more determination than ever, navigating the ongoing challenges posed by the light rail construction.
As you may have heard, the Federal Labor Government has removed the Light Rail Stage 4 extension to the airport from the Infrastructure Australia Priority List, leaving the project in a state of uncertainty. This decision has significant implications for the Gold Coast, especially for industries like tourism. In response, the Gold Coast City Council has suggested the possibility of introducing a bus service from Burleigh Heads to the Airport. The Crisafulli Government is undertaking further transport to provide a solution to this project stopped by the Federal Labor Government.
In addition, the rising cost of living continues to be a pressing issue in 2025. The median house price on the Gold Coast has reached $1.139 million this year, and with the current interest rate at 4.35%, securing loans has become both costly and difficult. A reduction in interest rates could help ease these pressures, particularly for the building and infrastructure sectors, which are grappling with severe inflation. Builders are struggling to meet the escalating costs of construction, resulting in many projects being left abandoned and unfinished.
Our local economy is also feeling the impact of changes to gambling laws and regulations, which have placed the Star Casino in a difficult position. A potential solution would be to find a White Knight—someone capable of taking over operations and meeting the regulator’s requirements.
On a more positive note, there is plenty to look forward to this year, with a range of exciting events that are sure to attract both interstate and international visitors. Highlights include Blues on Broadbeach, the Gold Coast Marathon, the GC500, and the Pacific Airshow, just to name a few. These events, coupled with our fantastic weather, should provide a boost to our tourism sector and help stimulate steady economic growth.
Wishing everyone a successful and prosperous year ahead!
As always, if you have any State issues you would like to discuss with me, don’t hesitate to contact my office.
Ph: (07) 5600 0100 / Email: mermaid.beach@parliament.qld.gov.au
Address: 1/2434 Gold Coast Highway, Mermaid Beach, 4218, QLD
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Cheers
Ray Stevens MP
