Page 2560 - Week 08 - Tuesday, 9 August 2016
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being fairer for all unit owners. The government and Mr Rattenbury showed that they do not care about water conservation and they do not care about fairer water bills. They simply voted the bill down. If they thought it had merit, they could have moved amendments. They have all the powers and all the resources of government to do that, but they chose not to, which can only suggest that they do not support the principle of water conservation and fairer water bills for all. (Second speaking period taken.)
In conclusion, I will discuss the heritage portfolio, which is a small part of the environment and planning budget, with less than $2 million allocated in the coming year. Unfortunately, the size of the heritage budget is a concern. We would all like to see a larger heritage budget, but there are, of course, many constraints on government that may make it difficult to allocate more. However, time and time again we have seen heritage considerations sidelined when the government wants to go ahead with its own pet project. We know that there are many developers or proponents that have struggled with heritage requirements. Meanwhile, there is a government project on the table and heritage requirements seem to get brushed aside.
Despite being a relatively young city, Canberra has a rich history which should be preserved, not just for Canberrans now or for Canberrans in the future but also for the nation as a whole. As the seat of government in the nation’s capital, we have access to the major national institutions, but we should not forget about our local heritage and our local history.
As I have said on many occasions, the ACT planning system is in major need of reform. It is time for the government to commit to such a change, which would be of benefit to all concerned with the planning system in the ACT.
MR GENTLEMAN (Brindabella—Minister for Planning and Land Management, Minister for Racing and Gaming and Minister for Workplace Safety and Industrial Relations) (9.23): Planning in the territory is one of the most important elements in government. As this budget shows, the ACT government has committed over $66.6 million to planning and land management activities in the territory. This investment not only allows the ACT to continue its reputation as one of the world's most livable cities but also shows that we are able to be responsive to the challenges of a growing and diverse city. I have spoken previously in this place about my commitment to having a dynamic outcomes-focused planning system in the ACT that balances the needs of our city and those who live in it.The statement of planning intent clearly details my vision, as minister, for a city renowned not only for its livability but its vibrant and distinctive lifestyle. The statement establishes four key priorities for achieving this: creating sustainable, compact and livable neighbourhoods with better transport choices; delivering high quality public spaces and streets through place-making; delivering an outcome-focused planning system to reward design, excellence and innovation; and engaging with the community, business and research sectors to optimise planning outcomes. Through my engagement with the community I have seen a great level of enthusiasm for this vision.
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