Next page . . . . Previous page . . . . Speeches . . . . Contents . . . . Debates(HTML) . . . .

None . . Page.. 1500 ..

developing Canberra's tourism infrastructure. Funding will be provided to initiate the development of the exciting Kingston foreshore as a tourism and cultural precinct. A total of $1.85m has been directed into the upgrading of the Visitor Information Centre, while $250,000 has been set aside for further investigation of transport options for the Sydney-Canberra corridor, including high speed rail.

Targeted industry assistance of $850,000 will provide greater incentives for businesses seeking to relocate or expand in the ACT. A total of $150,000 will go to the advanced technology industry to support its participation in the Gungahlin broadband project, while an additional $125,000 has been allocated for continuing improvements in advisory and planning services for business, particularly small business. Priority has also been given to developing a conducive business environment through a systematic review of all legislation and regulations to ensure that no unnecessary burdens are placed on business.

In line with the forward estimates of the previous Labor Government, a total of $1.6m has been allocated for labour market programs that focus on providing opportunities for the most disadvantaged in the ACT’s employment market. I can also announce that a third open access centre for job seekers will open early next year in the Tuggeranong Valley. This will provide a major boost to unemployed persons in the valley and ensure that they have the same job search support as is currently available in Civic and Belconnen. Later I will detail important changes to payroll tax that will further enhance our competitiveness, foster employment growth, and reflect our support for a vibrant business sector.

The difficult economic and budgetary climate faced by this Government has certainly made the delivery of many of our election commitments a tough, but not impossible, task. Nowhere is this more evident than in our efforts to promote local arts and sport. I can announce today with great pleasure that an additional $3m will be provided to the arts over the next three years. There will be an additional $1m for cultural grants, and $600,000 for art associated with major capital works projects that will give additional exposure to local artists. More than $850,000 will also be injected into cultural activities through the expanded Health Promotion Fund, and $500,000 will be provided for capital works funding for improvements to the Canberra Theatre.

The Government will build significantly on our reputation as a sport and recreation capital. Contrary to rumours - - -

Mr De Domenico: From whom?

MRS CARNELL: The clown opposite. Contrary to rumours, a capital grant of $1.5m is being provided this year to assist with the construction of the long awaited Tuggeranong Indoor Sports Centre. Other major projects due for completion during the next three years are the refurbishment of the Erindale Leisure Centre and the construction of the Nicholls district playing fields. The sports loan interest subsidy scheme will also be increased from 1996-97 to assist sporting organisations to develop and manage new facilities. Funding of $900,000 has also been injected into the ACT Academy of Sport to provide training centres for athletes aiming to compete at the Olympic level.

Next page . . . . Previous page . . . . Speeches . . . . Contents . . . . Debates(HTML) . . . .