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

Legislative Assembly for the ACT: 1998 Week 10 Hansard (26 November) . . Page.. 3082 ..

MR SMYTH (continuing):

The phasing in of a requirement for all new homes to contain roofing insulation has been implemented. The mandatory disclosure of the energy rating on all homes at time of sale has been implemented and is to commence on the 24th of this month. The opening of home energy rating inspections to existing home owners has been implemented. The review of energy efficiency in government buildings has been completed and recommendations are currently being prepared for me.

On the cash-back or subsidy programs for the installation of low-flow shower heads, a decision on the most appropriate rebate or incentive mechanism will be made in the context of the finalisation of the draft ACT greenhouse strategy. The energy advisory service is in place. It was launched on 11 September this year and is doing well. It has received more than 130 inquiries thus far, many resulting in detailed consultations about house plans.

There have been significant difficulties in implementing the Greenfleet program in the ACT. Other jurisdictions and the ACT are examining the model in Victoria, where the expected emission reductions have been very disappointing due to the poor take-up rate and to administrative difficulties. We are looking further to see what we can carry out under that program. The inclusion of an environmental criteria scheme in the ACT business incentive scheme guidelines is the responsibility of the Chief Minister. Her department are currently reviewing the existing guidelines, and I would hope that greenhouse issues will be addressed in the new guidelines which will be released early next year.

The integrated transport and land use strategy report was tabled. There is a document called "An Integrated Approach to Land Use & Transport Planning". It was released in December 1997. Considerable work and consultation have taken place for the implementation strategy. We have spoken to groups like the cyclists, and Canberra Bicycle 2000 was released in late 1997. This year I have established the ACT bicycle liaison group, and they have met a couple of times since. Of course, we are putting in the new ACTION bus network next year.

Mr Speaker, we have also been reducing emissions from landfills with the methane capture facilities. Motor vehicle registrations have now been linked with weight and emissions. ACTEW has announced its commitment to reducing greenhouse gas emissions through a mini-hydro scheme, and its Greenchoice program is being revamped. The ACT has led the way in public housing retrofitting programs with innovative projects such as Condamine Court.

Mr Speaker, I ask for leave to incorporate the answer into Hansard, for the information of all members.

Leave granted.

Document incorporated at Appendix 4.

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