Premier, Treasurer face a grilling over lobbyists, royalties as estimates start
Queensland Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk and Treasurer Cameron Dick will face a grilling over everything from lobbyists to coal royalties on the first day of budget estimate hearings.
Queensland Treasurer Cameron Dick and Queensland Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk arrive to give a briefing to journalists during the 2020-21 Queensland State Budget. (AAP Image/Glenn Hunt)
After months of negative headlines surrounding allegations of bullying, external lobbyist and legal action involving former deputy premier Jackie Trad, the state government will face questions over the next two weeks about the expenditure within their portfolios.
Palaszczuk is expected to be grilled over the Coaldrake report and the access and influence of lobbyists.
The premier has moved to tighten lobbying rules, but will still face intense questioning from the opposition.
Dick will also be in the line of fire after handing down the state budget in June.
While boasting the budget is back in the black with a forecast $1.9 billion surplus, Mr Dick has faced criticism after announcing the first coal royalty increase in 10 years.
The tax hike came into effect on July 1 amid claims it would damage international relations and deter future investment.
Dick is also likely to face questions about payroll and gambling tax increases.
Estimates hearings will kick off on Tuesday with speaker Curtis Pitt, and continue through until August 4.
