Moratorium on commercial lease evictions extended to end of 2020

The Palaszczuk Government’s moratorium on evictions for commercial leaseholders has been extended to the end of 2020.

Attorney-General and Minister said the three-month extension, effective to 31 December 2020, was welcome news for thousands of Queensland businesses.

“This extended moratorium will be a shot in the arm for Queensland jobs and the economy,” she said.

“It means that to the end of 2020 commercial leaseholders under affected leases can’t have their lease terminated if they fall into arrears as a result of the coronavirus pandemic.

“Since the moratorium was introduced in March, landlords and tenants have worked together in good faith to tackle the economic challenges we’re facing.

“This extension is about giving businesses, and the thousands of workers they employ, the certainty they need in these challenging times.

“It’s about supporting jobs and keeping people in work as Queensland builds towards economic recovery.”

Minister for Employment and Small Business Shannon Fentiman said extending the code means that it is not too late for businesses to come forward and receive assistance under the code until December 31.

“Today’s announcement is a huge relief for the many small businesses that are still struggling because of the COVID-19 pandemic,” Ms Fentiman said.

“Our small business Commissioner, Maree Adshead, has been doing a fantastic job mediating small business leasing disputes.

“Since opening in late May, the Small Business Commissioner’s office has already assisted hundreds of leasing disputes.”

Media contact: Attorney-General’s Office - Martin Philip 0407 675 008

                          Minister Fentiman’s Office – Inga Williams 0439 949 719