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Legislative Assembly for the ACT: 2000 Week 9 Hansard (7 September) . . Page.. 3012 ..

MR BERRY (continuing):

If this process is built upon and strengthened, it will contribute to reconciliation in this country in a way that we cannot possibly now measure at this point. It is something which, so far as I am concerned, is the future of the country. It is certainly the future for our relationships with the indigenous community, many of whom rightly feel left behind by society as a whole.

I once again welcome this first report. I will be studying closely the outcome of the report which has been tabled today. I imagine that the committee of which I am a member also will be considering the issue. I trust that the indigenous community and their leaders will also look closely at this report. I am sure that there will be some feedback in relation to how we might better serve the interests of our indigenous community in the future.

That is not to say that this first step will earn criticism. I think that it is just a first step along a long road to ensure that we build on these early efforts which have arisen from disquiet in the community over the issue. I conclude by welcoming this report and by thanking the minister for the details which have been included, even though I have not yet had a chance to decipher them and study them in full.

Debate (on motion by Ms Tucker ) adjourned.

Mr Moore presented the following papers:

Calvary Public Hospital-Patient Activity Data-May, June and July 2000.

The Canberra Hospital-Patient Activity Data-May, June and July 2000.

Hepatitis C-Lookback program and financial assistance scheme report as at 30 June 2000.

MS CARNELL (Chief Minister): I ask for leave to make a ministerial statement concerning Canberra Connect.

Leave granted.

MS CARNELL: I am pleased today to outline an initiative of my government that is set to enhance business dealings with our customers, that is, Canberra Connect. From 1 March 2001, Canberra Connect will be the primary customer service point for customers in the ACT regardless of whether they are paying their rates, licensing their dogs or wanting information and regardless of whether they are conducting this business in person at a shopfront, over the net or by phone.

The ACT is introducing Canberra Connect for one primary reason-to improve service delivery for customers through improved access and integrated systems. We want to improve the quality of services so that customers can find information and conduct their

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