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PM's $1.5bn fuel tax giveaway
15 Jun 2004
The Federal Government is set to release its energy statement today, which will include $1.5 billion in fuel tax breaks for farmers, rural businesses and mining companies. The changes, to be announced by the Prime Minister, will loosen eligibility for the off-road diesel fuel rebate, broadening its terms and extending it to all fuels, including petrol.
The fuel tax changes will relax the rules for what used to be called the on-road diesel and alternative grants scheme, intended to reduce transport costs for farmers, rural businesses and miners. The scheme will cover all fuels.
The fuel tax breaks are likely to be welcomed by farmers and miners, especially in Queensland and Western Australia, but are expected to raise the ire of environmentalists. One WA backbencher said he's been trying to get the fuel grants scheme simplified for years and get the "nonsense taken out of the legislation", such as the rebate not being available for diesel used for grain drying.
Australian Financial Review, 15/6/04.
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