Queensland Productivity Commission Bill 2015

Overview

This bill establishes the Queensland Productivity Commission as an independent body that advises the Treasurer on productivity, economic development and industry. It holds public inquiries when directed, investigates competitive neutrality complaints about government-run businesses, and takes over these functions from the Queensland Competition Authority.

Who it affects

Private businesses competing with government agencies gain a formal complaints process; QCA staff and records transfer across to the new Commission. For ordinary Queenslanders the change is mostly behind-the-scenes, though inquiry reports will be published online.

Key changes

• Creates the Queensland Productivity Commission as an independent statutory body with up to three commissioners, each serving up to three years
• The Treasurer can direct the Commission to hold public inquiries on productivity, economic development or industry, with public consultation and published reports
• Private businesses can complain if a government agency's business gets unfair advantages by skipping taxes, debt guarantee fees or normal regulation
• Transfers competitive neutrality and regulatory review functions, along with related staff and records, from the Queensland Competition Authority to the new Commission
• The Commission is advisory only - it has no power to make or enforce decisions, and cannot be directed on the content of its advice