Queensland business are being encouraged to employ apprentices and trainees so they can access payroll tax incentives following new laws passed in state parliament on 2 June 2015.

The government’s new payroll tax rebate is an initiative to help kick start jobs and growth by giving businesses a financial incentive to employ apprentices and trainees.

Treasurer Curtis Pitt said that under the laws, employers who hire new apprentices or trainees will get a 25 per cent payroll tax rebate on the payroll tax of another worker.

The rebate is expected to save Queensland businesses $45 million over three years.

“This gives our young people a greater chance of gaining employment and training and helps unlock the jobs of the future. It will help to tackle youth unemployment and allow us to develop a skilled workforce to support economic growth for Queensland in coming years.” said Mr Pitt.

The new rebate is available from 1 July 2015 and will apply to payroll tax for the 2015-16, 2016-17 and 2017-18 financial years.

Business owners and employers seeking more information about the payroll tax rebate should call the Queensland Government on 1300 300 734.