Queensland residents draws to the attention of the House that the Standard Time Act 1894 is outdated. It denies most residents and visitors lifestyle opportunities and has a negative impact on Queensland's economy, with many businesses adversely affected. The Standard Time Act 1894 is not only one of Queensland's oldest pieces of legislation, but it also Australia's oldest standard time legislation currently in operation throughout all states and territories. The Standard Time Act 1894 was established in the 19th century to ensure Queensland's operation of time was aligned with all eastern states of Australia. Currently all eastern states in Australia, except Queensland, observe the modern practice of daylight saving over a six-month period during the warmer months. During this period, Queensland operates one hour behind these other states. This highlights the necessity to refine the existing standard time legislation in Queensland, in order to reflect 21st century practices and restore time alignment with all Australian east coast states for the full 12 months of the year. The Standard Time Act 1894 was established when Queensland's population was less than 450,000. The number has since grown 10-fold, to over 4.6 million, representing a significant change in demographics.

Your petitioners, therefore, request the House to amend the Standard Time Act 1894, or supplement the Act with daylight saving legislation, to ensure Queensland's time zone is once again aligned to all Australian eastern states for the full 12 months of the year. This would more accurately reflect current demographics and community sentiment.