Page 3742 - Week 12 - Wednesday, 23 October 2013

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That this Assembly:

(1) notes that on the intersection of Hinder and Hibberson Streets in Gungahlin there have been 66 accidents in the last seven years; and

(2) calls on the Government and the Minister for Territory and Municipal Services to:

(a) provide reports that have been undertaken into the safety of this intersection;

(b) reassess the intersection and provide a report to the Assembly on the outcome of the assessment; and

I rise today to speak to the motion that appears on the notice paper in my name. At the east end of the Gungahlin town centre is an intersection that is well known. It is close to Coles and Aldi, close to the doctors and the blood service. It is also where the post office is located and, therefore, a hub of community interactions for the young and old. It is also well known because it is dangerous. It has been the site of more than 66 accidents in the last seven years. On average this means that every six weeks there is an accident at the crossing of Hibberson Street and Hinder Street.

From my many years living in Gungahlin, I have always thought that the intersection I am referring to was an example of how ACT Labor is somewhat out of touch with the people who are the pioneers who invested in homes and built lives in Gungahlin. It seems that too many of their concerns do not seem to make the agenda of this government. I have often wondered why glaring issues like this intersection do not enter into the plans of this government. After much reflection, I think it is because most of the members of this government have barely set foot in Gungahlin and literally have no clue about what daily life there resembles.

I am wrong, actually. Minister Rattenbury has campaigned at the shops a few times. I remember the Chief Minister even turning up for at least two hours just before election day. Mr Corbell, I believe many years ago, lived there for a little while. But other than that—sorry, Minister Barr was there for turning a sod this week. Maybe that is why people do not realise the importance of these issues and how big they are.

Mr Corbell: Where do you live, Giulia?

MRS JONES: I now do not live in Gungahlin, but I did for a long time, and I spend a fair bit of time up there, thank you, Minister Corbell. If any members opposite had been into the Gungahlin post office and asked how frequently accidents occur at this intersection, they would know from the great people who serve the community there all day that accidents are distressing and frequent. They would also know that locals are confused about why nothing has been done. In June this year I asked the minister what plans he had to improve the visibility at this intersection and what plans he had to manage the traffic flow.

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