Page 3126 - Week 09 - Tuesday, 22 August 2017
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We also need to ensure that, where there is new development, existing trees are retained wherever possible. We need to make sure that as infill happens we do not end up getting rid of all the trees in an area. We need the trees to be our lungs and to keep Canberra cool. (Second speaking period taken.)
In relation to rules that are not being adhered to that my constituents and others are concerned about, solar access is up there. They are concerned that when plans are submitted they are simply wrong. Incorrect information is given, and the certifier or ACTPLA do not notice it. Maybe the certifier in some instances does notice but figures it is not in their commercial interest to do anything about it. Regardless of that, I urge ACTPLA to review its processes internally, audit certifiers, review individual cases and revoke approvals.
We know that Canberra is a great place for building passive solar. In the winter in particular, we have good sunshine. We can keep our houses warm as long as we allow solar access. I am very concerned that the infill of Canberra is in some instances seriously reducing solar access and that the newer parts of Canberra are being built with very little regard to solar access. In fact, I went to a presentation from a developer recently and they told me how great it was because the building was facing east and west, which they told me with a straight face was the best orientation for solar access. So I think there is a huge need for education and enforcement of energy efficiency rules and solar access.
MS CHEYNE (Ginninderra) (4.22): We are the bush capital—loud and proud. Our access to nature and wildlife is one of our greatest assets, and the government is working hard to ensure that we make our bush areas safe and interesting places to visit, while protecting and supporting fragile natural ecosystems.
Every year over 4.5 million visitors come to Canberra to experience the bush capital. With such spectacular wildlife mere footsteps from the city, it is not surprising that tourism is one of the fastest growing industries in the territory. It accounts for 16,400 jobs and contributes over $2 billion to our economy every year. In 2016 Labor promised to develop Canberra’s ecotourism strategy to support more economic growth and create even more jobs. This included building a new visitor centre in Throsby.
This budget allocates $162,000 for a grant to the woodland and wetlands trust for the design of a new Mulligans Flat ecotourism visitor centre. The centre will be a gateway to a mosaic of native flowers and a diverse array of birds and critters. The area hosts the recently reintroduced bettongs and quolls and the largest and most intact area of the critically endangered yellow box gum grassy woodland. I also commend the government for its continued efforts to protect the golden sun moth and natural temperate grassland in Belconnen by allocating $112,000 to establish the status of Jarramlee nature reserve and Ginninderra Creek.
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