Turnbull Government shows more dysfunction

Treasurer Curtis Pitt says the Turnbull Government is one of dysfunction - the PM travels around the country doing deals with Liberal-National Party Governments which seem to punish Queensland. 

“Once again another story comes out about the Prime Minister talking about a major tax change with no detail or consultation - the thought bubbles continue,” Mr Pitt said.

“First it was Western Australia and their sweetheart deals now it's Tasmania.

“When it comes to floating changes to the GST - which is distributed entirely to states and territories - how about following proper process and seek agreement to any changes before seeking a headline?

“Malcolm Turnbull previously floated a GST rise then dropped it, and he floated extra state-based income taxes but then dropped that too.

“His latest thought bubble of a floor in GST payments to the states and territories was not mentioned to voters in the longest election campaign in living memory, but now it's not going to happen for some years. 

“Treasurer Scott Morrison seems to get his economic policy advice from the PM as he tours LNP seats.

"What has the Turnbull Government got against Queenslanders?

"Why don't Queensland's Federal LNP politicians stand up for us and do their job?

"Where's Steven Ciobo or Peter Dutton? When their state needs them - they go to water.

"Do they back this latest idea and were they consulted before Mr Turnbull said let's have a GST floor but let's introduce it over 'some years'?”

Mr Pitt said Mr Turnbull and Mr Morrison needed to provide full details of their proposal and start talking to states and territories. 

“As I've said before, Queenslanders need to know what the implications are for the existing independent Commonwealth Grants Commission that develops the recommended GST distribution formula. 

“Any change to GST distribution has the potential to affect state revenue and service delivery. So if they are going to cut funding in education, health and other services, we need to hold urgent discussions.

"It’s obvious Queenslanders can’t rely on our federal LNP Members of Parliament to stand up for us to get our fair share of GST." 

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