Page 1827 - Week 07 - Tuesday, 22 June 2021
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We know there is already a lot of expertise in the industry and in research on battery storage systems. That is why, earlier this year, the government held a joint industry, research and government co-design workshop process where stakeholders shared ideas and capabilities on the role of the Big Canberra Battery in the ACT’s future energy system. The ANU report on this workshop will be released in the coming weeks. The co-design workshop report will formally conclude the government’s market sounding exercise. This will be followed by an expression of interest process, which will open in the coming months, and will enable interested industry partners to work with the government on the specific design parameters of the project. I look forward to updating the Assembly as this process progresses.
The government has a large suite of climate action policies in addition to the sustainable household scheme and the Big Canberra Battery. This includes making it easier and cheaper to purchase a zero-emissions vehicle. In May, we announced that Canberrans who purchase new or second-hand zero-emissions vehicles will be exempt from registration fees for the first two years of registration. We also know that an important consideration when purchasing an electric vehicle is where it can be charged. That is why we are also rolling out at least 500 new charging points across Canberra over the next year.
The ACT will continue to lead the country on taking real action on climate change. But we are not alone. Most states and territories around Australia have released ambitious plans to support the growth of renewable and sustainable technologies and lower emissions. However, at a national level, Australia is clearly falling behind our global counterparts, including those with conservative governments, as the commonwealth continues to avoid cementing a national target for reaching net zero emissions. This was again highlighted at the recent G7 meeting in the UK, where Australia was one of the four guest countries invited to participate in the summit.
Through this term of government, the ACT will continue to encourage a collaborative effort to reduce emissions. We fundamentally believe that the benefits of these investments should be shared, whether you own a free-standing home, whether you are renting an apartment, whether you drive to work every day or whether you are a public transport user. Our climate action agenda is designed to not leave people behind.
As this transition occurs across the country, the government will retain a focus on a fair and just transition as we continue to grow and protect jobs for Canberrans in these emerging industries. These actions are part of our broader ambition for Canberra as an innovative, liveable and sustainable city, as we continue to emerge from the COVID-19 pandemic stronger, together. I present the following paper:
Update on the ACT Government’s work to create sustainable Canberra jobs—Ministerial statement, 22 June 2021.
I move:
That the Assembly take note of the paper.
Debate (on motion by Ms Cheyne) adjourned to the next sitting.
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