One of the previous reasons interstate people moved to Queensland (apart from the sunshine) was for the lower stamp duty applicable on home purchases. This is a major factor when deciding to purchase either in the Tweed region or the Gold Coast with most deciding for the latter. Perhaps with similar rates of duty, the Tweed region will now prosper. Whilst the Qld government must look at ways to increase revenue, it is highly disappointing to see they have now followed the other States by using the stamp duty on homes. I guess it is easier to raise large sums of money in a small number of transactions. Less people to rattle the ship!