The costs of moving necessary freight to Australia’s regional communities is high, such is the size, scope and scale of the country, however the Queensland state government’s Remote Freight Assistance Scheme has boosted discounts to 20 per cent in a bid to avoid passing on those extra and necessary costs to consumers.
Starting on Monday, September 9, the discount on essential goods in some of Queensland’s most remote communities has lifted from 5.2 per cent to 20 per cent, with approximately 34 stores across the Cape York, Torres Strait and Gulf region currently applying the discount.
The Scheme is limited to eligible businesses with one or more premises in Aurukun, Burke, Carpentaria, Cook, Doomadgee, Kowanyama, Hope Vale, Lockhart River, Mapoon, Mornington, Napranum, Northern Peninsula Area, Pormpuraaw, Torres, Torres Strait Island, Weipa Town Area, Wujal Wujal.
Transport and Main Roads and Digital Services Minister Bart Mellish says the freight discount will provide cost of living help in some of Australia’s most remote communities.
“This is about delivering practical and tangible relief for our remote communities,” Mellish says.
“By applying an increased discount percentage of 20 per cent at the cash register at participating retailers, the weekly grocery shop will be even more affordable for residents living in the Northern Peninsula, Torres Strait and Gulf region.
“I encourage retailers not participating in the scheme within the region to visit the QRIDA website, search for the Remote Communities Freight Assistance Scheme, and investigate their eligibility to apply.”
Read more ATN:
Low-kilometre, high-value: The ex-fleet advantage
International Road Transport convention coming to Melbourne
Sydney’s Epping Bridge to expand to seven lanes