Queensland Officials Fly Separate Planes After Passing Emissions Bill, Costing Taxpayers Thousands

Queensland Premier Steven Miles, Police Minister Mark Ryan, and new Police Commissioner Steve Gollschewski flew in separate planes to multiple locations across the state, including Townsville, Cairns, Hervey Bay, and Brisbane, just days after the government passed landmark emissions reduction legislation. The trio and their teams traveled on a roughly 24-hour round trip, covering approximately 2,800 km, to make a series of crime announcements.

While the government did not disclose the cost to taxpayers, the type of jets used typically cost around $6,500 per hour to hire privately. Miles blamed his staff for the decision to use the private jets, which has drawn criticism from the public. Many are questioning the need for such extensive travel arrangements and the use of taxpayer funds, contending that the separate flights contradict the emissions reduction targets the government had just legislated.

Why this matters: The revelations raise questions about the Queensland government's commitment to reducing emissions and the efficient use of public funds. The officials' actions appear to be at odds with the state's recently passed environmental policies, potentially undermining public trust in the government's ability to lead by example.

The opposition has indicated they will support the government's emissions reduction target, but many Queenslanders are not as keen on the move. Some claim this is the latest in a long line of blunders from the Labor government, while others argue there is nothing wrong with the separate flights. "There is nothing wrong with the Premier and the Police Minister and the Police Commissioner going to different parts of the state to make important announcements," Miles stated in response to the criticism.

Key Takeaways

• Queensland officials took separate planes for a 24-hour trip across the state.
• The flights cost around $6,500 per hour, raising concerns over public funds usage.
• The travel contradicts the state's recently passed emissions reduction legislation.
• The opposition supports the emissions targets, but the public is divided on the issue.
• The Premier blamed staff for the decision to use private jets, defending the travel.