Page 1503 - Week 06 - Tuesday, 18 May 1993
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BHP Information Technology has recently won a $100m contract from the Federal Department of Social Security to upgrade the department's computer system. This company was established with its headquarters in Canberra, which has resulted in substantial benefits to both the company and the ACT economy. Winning this contract will mean further growth for the company and Canberra's information technology industry. The Government has also established a close working relationship with the Advanced Technology Products Group. This group of 10 to 15 local high technology manufacturing companies - such as Auspace, CEA Technologies and Network Automation - are at the leading edge of innovation in their fields.
I recently exchanged letters with the Acer computer company exploring a proposal to develop an English as a second language package. This package, representing an investment of around $2m, will be used in ACT schools and is also being developed for the export market. This is a significant business development opportunity for local industry - a chance to increase both local and international trade and to contribute to the development of English as a second language. Expressions of interest will soon be invited for developing the package, and our local companies will want to be involved.
Madam Speaker, these are just some of the positive outcomes of the Government's policies to encourage the advanced technology sector in the ACT. But we are not focusing on just one industry. We are looking to work cooperatively with a range of industries to achieve similar goals. EPACT has highlighted in its report a substantial core group of organisations that we already have in the ACT which, together with our location, make us ideally placed to develop Canberra as a centre for excellence in environmental management.
Madam Speaker, this Friday, I am delighted to be opening the "Canberra Region: On Display" exhibition at the National Convention Centre. This is a showcase organised by the Canberra region campaign and will highlight the products and services of Canberra region businesses. The display will show local buyers, businesses, government departments and the public the productivity and capabilities of the region. I understand that all the display stands are fully booked and that there is immense enthusiasm for the event.
The lunchtime speaker at the exhibition will be Mr John Valder, chair of the Corporate Support Committee for the Sydney Olympic Games bid. I recently announced that the ACT Government will sponsor the Sydney bid. This sponsorship recognises that holding the Olympics in Sydney will have substantial benefits for the whole of Australia, but particularly for the Sydney and Canberra region. A Sydney Olympics would give the Canberra region a range of benefits, with increased international recognition bringing tourists and other investment to the region.
Tourism remains a high priority for the Government. It is a major industry for Canberra, in terms of both employment and the income it generates. In 1992, over 1,450,000 visitors came to Canberra, an increase of 275,000 over 1991. These visitors contributed nearly $500m to the local economy and generated some 7,700 jobs. The continuing popularity of Canberra as a visitor destination is reflected in the fact that occupancy rates in hotels and motels are the highest in Australia.
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