Page 629 - Week 02 - Wednesday, 11 February 2009
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branch of the Australian Institute of Architects, speaking about the insulation initiative, describes it as “firing up the economy” and “doing the right thing by the environment”.
Heather Ridout of the Australian Industry Group describes the package as a “much-needed short in the arm”. She says, “Together with interest rates cuts, it has been a big day out for monetary and fiscal policy.”
What about the housing industry, Mr Speaker? Ron Silverberg from the Housing Industry Association believes that the package will create 35,000 jobs. The Housing Industry Association believes the package will create 35,000 jobs. The HIA says:
The Government’s recovery plan appropriately spends for jobs in the short term and invests for future prosperity.
Harley Dale, the HIA’s chief economist, says:
Without this package, prospects in the home building sector in 2009 were looking pretty dire.
Wilhelm Harnisch, chief executive of the MBA, describes the package as being “carefully targeted to maximise economic and employment outcomes in what will be a difficult economic period”.
The direct benefit of the stimulus package for the ACT is in the order of $350 million in capital. This includes $229.3 million for schools and $102 million for social housing. These are incredibly substantial figures for an economy the size of ours. Workers in the construction industry will benefit from these initiatives, as they represent a significant investment in the local housing sector. The $252 million—
Members interjecting—
MR SPEAKER: Order! Members on both sides of the chamber are making too much noise for the Chief Minister to be heard. I call the Chief Minister.
MR STANHOPE: Thank you, Mr Speaker. A tax bonus of up to $950 for eligible working Australians will also provide a boost to consumption in the ACT—
Mrs Dunne: Even if they live overseas?
MR STANHOPE: which will have positive flow on effects. Mrs Dunne says she does not support the $950. Further bonuses that will impact positively on consumption include the $950 single income family bonus—we know what the Liberal Party thinks about single families—for eligible families and a $950 back-to-school bonus for eligible school age children. The works proposed through the nation building and jobs plan will be delivered locally by a range of trades—builders, plumbers, roofers, painters, electricians, plasterers; the list goes on.
MR SPEAKER: Order! The Chief Minister’s time has expired. Ms Burch, a supplementary question?
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