Queensland to retain veto on automatic mutual recognition

The Palaszczuk Government will reserve its right to veto the operation on some or all provisions of automatic mutual recognition to ensure community safety and the high standards of Queensland’s occupational licensing.

Treasurer Cameron Dick said that Queensland had secured clauses in the intergovernmental agreement to ensure Queensland’s high standards would not be compromised.

“Queensland supports common sense mutual recognition, but under no circumstances will we compromise our world leading standards for fire safety, electrical and plumbing trades that are based on formal qualifications,” the Treasurer said.

“This includes ensuring interstate arrivals continue to engage with Queensland’s regulators, such as the Electrical Safety Office, before undertaking work that could compromise safety or standards”

“The agreement allows Queensland to withdraw its participation in the scheme in whole or in part, and we will not hesitate to act if other states do not step up to our high standards”.

Media Contact: Geoff Breusch 0417 272 875