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Legislative Assembly for the ACT: 2004 Week 05 Hansard (Tuesday, 4 May 2004) . . Page.. 1744 ..

The budget provides $1.6 million in the capital works program for Manuka Oval, which will provide improved spectator comfort with undercover seating for an additional 4,000 fans. Manuka Oval celebrates its 75th birthday this year. It remains a key facility for both AFL and cricket, hosting a large number of community and elite level events each year.

The government continues to try to find a sustainable site for the establishment of a dragway within the territory. There are major difficulties with all potential sites, not the least being noise control regulations. Nevertheless, there has been $8 million set aside in the capital budget to fund the facility once siting problems have been resolved.

Canberra’s elite teams continue to receive substantial government support, as does the very successful ACT Academy of Sport. Sport at all levels has received, and will continue to receive, operating and capital grants to ensure that sport at the grassroots level continues to thrive.

The government has introduced an actively ageing program which has attracted many willing participants and will be extended through further funding in 2004-05. Funding of $383,000 is provided for this purpose.

Women

Mr Speaker, a women’s budget statement is contained in this budget. This is a result of the work of the Assembly select committee’s report on the status of women in the ACT.

Many of the initiatives announced in the budget will have a positive impact on women, such as the major announcements in housing, health and education which directly and positively benefit many women. There are also some specific announcements.

Commencing on 1 July 2005, employers who provide full-time and part-time paid maternity, adoption and/or primary care giver leave will be eligible for a payroll tax exemption. This exemption is for a maximum of 14 weeks and applies to paid maternity, adoption and/or primary care giver leave.

The government’s commitment extends to other initiatives, such as establishing a women’s grants program, increasing the number of specialist breast cancer nurses, and funding scholarships for company directorship courses for women.

A feasibility study will also be completed on work-based childcare for our employees.

Law and community safety

Mr Speaker, the budget demonstrates the government’s commitment to increasing the number and range of resources available to protect and assist our community.

Over the past three budgets, this government has provided over $37 million for policing, for a combination of both police numbers and wages and administrative costs.

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