Page 3542 - Week 11 - Thursday, 23 October 2014
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The Whitlam government also sought to ensure the Australian social security system provided an adequate safety net for those who needed it most and enacted specific changes to support opportunities of security for women. Mr Barr also mentioned the Whitlam government’s introduction of FM radio to Australia and established 2JJ, now known as Triple J. This was a station that was specifically designed to support Australian music and connect with young Australians.
These are just a couple of achievements that the Whitlam government was able to make and these achievements alone, by any measure, are major. But they only represent a snapshot of what Gough Whitlam and his Labor government achieved. Whether we realise it or not, we have all benefited from the legacy of Gough Whitlam’s leadership and the achievements of his government, and we still do today. I am very proud of how much he and his government achieved in such a relatively short period. He was ambitious for Australia. He led us to become a more modern and progressive nation and he will continue to be an inspiration for generations to come.
I send my sincere condolences to the family and friends of this wonderful human being. Vale Edward Gough Whitlam, a leader who tirelessly fought for a fairer society. You will be missed but your achievements, ideas and inspiration will live on.
Question resolved in the affirmative, members standing in their places.
Delegation to Hong Kong and Shenzhen
Statement by minister
MS GALLAGHER (Molonglo—Chief Minister, Minister for Health, Minister for Higher Education and Minister for Regional Development) (10.55), by leave: I am pleased to advise the Assembly on the outcomes of the delegation I led last week to Hong Kong and Shenzhen—the third visit I have made to China in just over a year. During a very full three days, I was able to meet with numerous trade and tourism representatives, senior Chinese officials, investors and businesspeople, both in Hong Kong and in the technological powerhouse of Shenzhen. I take this opportunity to thank all of the hosts for the hospitality shown to us and for the keen interest expressed—once again—in doing business and building new relationships with Canberra.
We know the importance of forging strong relationships and building cultural understanding with countries in our region. This delegation has taken another important step forward in the high-level relationship between the ACT and China. This helps pave the way for our businesses, universities and educational institutions to grow their own connections with counterparts in China—a means for new opportunities for innovators and entrepreneurs in both countries.
At the city-to-city level, last week’s mission achieved one of its key goals—signing of an MOU for friendship exchange and economic cooperation with the city of Shenzhen. Shenzhen was the first and is one of the most successful of China’s “special economic zones”. It is home to some of the largest tech companies in the world. Its population numbers around 15 million and its economy is significant, not just in China but in
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