These criticisms claim foreign investment will be impacted by the decision and although those making the claim have not been sufficiently motivated to put their name to their allegations, they should be rejected.

The small surcharge is designed to ensure foreign buyers of residential property contribute to the provision of services and infrastructure as local buyers have always done.

This is the same reasoning behind similar decisions by the New South Wales and Victorian state governments to implement a similar surcharge on foreign buyers of residential property.

The difference is that Queensland remains very attractive to foreign investors because the surcharge rate here is a modest 3% compared with 4% in NSW and 7% in Victoria.

The surcharge will take effect from October 1 and there is a process underway to consult with industry on its implementation guidelines.

Queensland not only welcomes, but encourages mutually beneficial foreign investment in our state and the jobs and benefits it brings.

It is scaremongering to suggest foreign buyers will rethink investing in Queensland — a state that, according to State Budget estimates recorded nation-leading growth in 2015-16 and with strong forecast growth this year and in the years ahead.

Curtis Pitt

Treasurer of Queensland

Volunteering is a rewarding way to make a difference in your local community – and in your own life. In Queensland, almost one million people volunteer their time each year for a cause close to their heart. 

Research shows that volunteering not only benefits the community around you, but also boosts feelings of wellbeing and provides a greater sense of purpose in life. 

In 2014, according to Volunteering Queensland, volunteers provided 133.4 million hours of work, worth $11.6 billion to the Queensland economy. 

Many charities and causes rely on the generosity of volunteers to continue doing their vital work. Whether you can volunteer regularly, or intermittently, here’s why you should give it a go: 

1. Research shows that people who give their time for a cause they believe in often have a greater sense of purpose and lead happier lives. Whether you volunteer by fundraising or organising an event – giving back can provide great fulfilment in life.  

2. Volunteering builds strong relationships. If you want to strengthen friendships and meet new people, volunteering is a great place to start. It build ties in the community, broadens your support network and connects you with like-minded individuals. Volunteering alongside people with similar interests also inspires many to achieve even greater things.  

3. Volunteering gives you an opportunity to learn new skills and develop the ones you have, all while making a difference. Through this, many people also find new hobbies, which in turn boosts self-esteem.

4. Without volunteers, many community organisations could not deliver the services and opportunities they currently do. You might not realise it, but just a few hours of your time can actually have a tangible impact on your community. By fundraising for a charity, you can help reach those less fortunate, and by raising awareness of a cause, you can help advocate for change.

You often don’t need a specific skill set to make a difference – all you need is a big heart and a bit of spare time.

Cancer Council Queensland