Page 680 - Week 02 - Wednesday, 22 February 2012

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(2) calls on all parties in the Assembly to:

(a) discuss the ACT economy with measured language and robust analysis rather than reckless rhetoric and confected outrage;

(b) support confidence in the Canberra economy by recognising and promoting our strengths, particularly in relation to other jurisdictions both within and outside Australia; and

The motion I move today is very important. It is important to recognise that a strong and robust economy brings benefits to all Canberrans. It is important to recognise that confidence is an important contributor to economic activity and job creation. I imagine you would say, Madam Assistant Speaker, that this would appear to be self-evident. Unfortunately, we hear continual talking down of the economy from some members of this place.

It is irresponsible to talk down the economy, especially when it is contrary to the facts and we have seen the effects of this on the world economy. We must recognise that the ACT has a strong and vibrant economy and a highly skilled, innovative and productive workforce which continues to expand.

Our economy has performed well across many sectors. We have very low unemployment and we have relatively higher average wages and a higher average disposable income. We have lower taxation levels relative to the size of the economy or incomes compared to the national average. These are important facts.

A strong economy increases standards of living, improves quality of life, enables services to be maintained and provides specialist services to those most in need. With a strong economy, government is able to address important and ongoing issues and a sound economic base helps provide a buffer when boom times wane.

A strong economy has a positive impact on families and communities. It allows families and households to plan for the future, be that purchasing a new home, starting a new family or saving for their children’s education. A strong economy offers job opportunities. It allows those that are unemployed or underemployed to have more opportunities to get back to work or to get a better job, lifting families out of poverty.

Meaningful employment for many members of our community is critical to their self-esteem and confidence. Importantly, when they acquire new skills they increase the overall skill level of all ACT workers. It allows the government to provide high quality services to the whole community through schools, hospitals, transport systems and energy options for households and businesses.

More than that, it allows us to target specialist services to the vulnerable and provide targeted concessions to those most in need. It allows these people to access greater opportunities and unlock their potential to their individual benefit and to the benefit of the whole community.

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