Page 2685 - Week 10 - Thursday, 15 October 1992
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In addition to the issues raised in the report, we will also be examining opportunities for issuing leases over land that is currently held under short-term agistment arrangements. This process, by placing rural land on the open market, could see the first releases for some considerable time of new ACT rural land. By means of rural leasing guidelines, management plans and agreements, we will ensure that ecologically sound practices are followed and that activities on the land will provide for sustainable development. We will also continue the existing practice of ensuring that prospective rural lessees meet eligibility requirements and management standards. Madam Speaker, our rural policies, in concert with our landmark legislation, the Land (Planning and Environment) Act, will place the ACT in the forefront of land management in Australia.
Debate (on motion by Mr Westende) adjourned.
NATIONAL FLAG
Discussion of Matter of Public Importance
MADAM SPEAKER: I have received letters from Mr Lamont and Mr Stevenson proposing that matters of public importance be submitted to the Assembly. In accordance with standing order 79, I have determined that the matter proposed by Mr Stevenson be submitted to the Assembly, namely:
The need for the ACT Parliament to support the national flag.
MR STEVENSON (3.09): Australia has a proud history and a heritage worth preserving. I could say much about the Australian national flag and the need for the ACT parliament to support it, but I could not say it better than to read this story titled "The Voice of the Australian Flag":
I am the National Flag of the Commonwealth of Australia.
I belong to you and every Australian, equally and freely.
I was conceived before the dawn of the century. Designed by Ivor Evans, I was chosen over and above some 32,000 contenders.
Although I was never an orphan, I was adopted on that sparkling spring day, the 3rd of September, 1901. I was raised proudly above the Exhibition Building in Melbourne.
I was hailed and celebrated by people standing on the threshold of nationhood. They took me to their hearts.
In that official ceremony, in the presence of our first Prime Minister, I became the chief symbol of a new Nation, embracing the ideals of self-determination, national sovereignty and personal freedom, under God.
I have been hoisted aloft over many buildings - from humble homes to the Houses of Parliament.
I have listened to every Prime Minister declare his allegiance to me, to our Monarch and to our Constitution.
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