Page 3867 - Week 12 - Thursday, 29 October 2015
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past couple of months. It is pleasing to see that there is strong interest in Westside. I know there are some critics. There are always critics of anything new or different. But I think the important thing is that this city demonstrates that it is capable of doing something a little different, something a little innovative.
In terms of Westside, I note that its key demographics are very happy with the precinct and the range of events that are held there. Yes, there will always be some for whom it is not their cup of tea, but that should not detract from the enjoyment that tens of thousands of Canberrans have already had and will have at this venue.
MADAM SPEAKER: Supplementary question, Mr Smyth.
MR SMYTH: Minister, has the government had to lower rents for businesses at the site?
MR BARR: I do not believe so. As I understand it, the rents were very low to begin with. I am happy to take some further advice in relation to rent levels. I understand that they are per container, not per square metre, but they are set very low because it is a temporary pop-up facility and it is designed to be there for a relatively short period of time, say two to three years, in advance of further development in the precinct. I note that work will commence in 2016 on the first stage of the city to the lake development adjacent to Westside, and the new community park, with some pavilions and event space, will be delivered as part of that first stage of the city to the lake project.
I note that the shadow tourism minister was a deep opponent of the Enlighten festival only five or six years ago, so he has form in not being able to pick events and activities that are very strongly supported by the Canberra community. Always the critic. Never anything positive to say about new ideas, innovations, events and activities in this city.
This side of politics is prepared to support some innovation and this side of politics is prepared particularly to support younger Canberrans to have spaces and places that they can go to and enjoy activities.
Health—infrastructure
DR BOURKE: My question is to the Minister for Health. Minister, can you please update the Assembly on what major health infrastructure projects have been completed at Canberra Hospital over the past few years?
MR CORBELL: I thank Dr Bourke for his question. The government, of course, does have a comprehensive capital works program, investing over $900 million in health infrastructure works over the past few years. This is a very big commitment on the part of the Labor government to improve the physical facilities available for the delivery of health care for our city and our community.
There has been a broad range of projects, but today I would like particularly to highlight those that perhaps have not received as significant an amount of attention as
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