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oversighted by a board comprising senior representatives from both the public and private sectors. There will be $737,000 to initiate the redevelopment of Kingston foreshore, $1.85m to upgrade the ACT Visitor Information Centre, $250,000 for further investigation of transport options for the Sydney-Canberra corridor, including high-speed rail, $850,000 for industry assistance and to provide incentives to businesses seeking to expand or relocate in the ACT, and $150,000 for the advanced technology industry to support industry participation in the Gungahlin broadband project.

On top of that there is $1.6m for employment programs, in line with the forward estimates, that focus on providing opportunities for the most disadvantaged in the labour market. In terms of tourism, Mr Speaker, there is $250,000 more than was provided by the Labor Government. The Visitor Information Centre, as I have mentioned, will be expanded at a cost of $1.85m. Increased advertising of Canberra as a holiday destination for domestic tourists will also be encouraged, Mr Speaker, and there will be targeted international promotion of Canberra, including cooperative ventures. Over a three-year period, Mr Speaker, over $10m more will be provided by this Government than was provided by the former Follett Labor Government.

Mr Speaker, ironically, Mr Wood was very timely in asking me this question. The Canberra Business Council is not too friendly with Liberal administrations from time to time, but I want to quote from their press release. It says:

The Business Council since self-government has constantly recommended a long-term strategy with a focus on developing a vibrant private sector generating “jobs for our kids”, but also addressing deficit problems.

This budget commences that task.

The Business Council believes a close partnership between government, community and business is essential for economic success in this community.

This budget presents the opportunity for these three groups to work together to foster a flourishing economy and ensure the future success of Canberra ...

... ... ...

In particular the Business Council supports:

. The Government's commitment to a 9 per cent reduction in costs.

. Payroll tax deductions ...

. The resourcing of CanTrade in this budget will enable our community to realise the potential of Canberra and region.

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