Paper Petition

The petition of residents of the State of Queensland draws to the attention of the House that the Government’s Group Insurance Scheme and its other efforts to improve the affordability and availability of Public Liability Insurance are failing the people of Queensland. Community not- for-profit organisations are still being senselessly devastated by unavailable insurance cover or unaffordable premiums, and scores of successful significant events have been cancelled. Our small towns are suffering severely. Whole communities are battling to overcome the staggering economic loss of forced cancellations and organisations are losing opportunities for vital fundraising. Country people are very angry that the loss of, and loss of viability of, community events is eroding our traditional recreational pursuits and seriously effecting our way of life.

Your petitioners therefore request the House that Mr Beattie’s Government investigate the relevant actions taken by other State Governments, particularly New South Wales, which reportedly has public liability insurance premiums that are much lower and more available than in Queensland. Furthermore, that the Government liaise with the Insurance Council of Australia and/or major insurance companies regarding what initiatives they require for public liability insurance to be returned to reasonable affordability.