Page 2855 - Week 08 - Wednesday, 14 August 2019
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good enough. Rather than instructing or working with the occupier to remove the hundreds of containers, the public health officer only asked them to tip the water out. This is not a solution.
I ask the minister whether he would feel comfortable living next to these properties which pose a potential health hazard, whether he would feel this enforcement is adequate or whether he might want stronger enforcement, just as many other Canberrans do. It is not reasonable in Canberra to have rat and snake infestations caused by hundreds of fridges and washing machines in the front and back yards of suburban homes.
The bill I present today introduces inspection and enforcement measures surrounding controlled activity orders related to unclean leaseholds. The amendments include: mandating that no interim stay can be granted to properties subject to controlled activity orders, which will give them immediate effect; making the issue of an ongoing controlled activity order non-reviewable; introducing regular inspections; inserting firm deadlines for rectification works to be carried out; requiring that rectification works must be authorised if the subject of an ongoing controlled activity order refuses to comply; making individuals in breach of controlled activity orders liable for rectification costs; and increasing penalties for multiple breaches or breaches in relation to commercial activities taking place on blocks.
Many residents have been severely affected through the lack of enforcement and delays in addressing extreme hoarding issues in their community. I thank those who are with us today for their contribution, and the many more who have been in touch with our office. I particularly mention and give special thanks to Kimuel, whose tireless advocacy has been a driving force for this change.
All these residents have been forced to deal with these issues on a daily basis for many years. They pay their rates and they do the right thing. It is not unreasonable that their local government takes their complaints seriously and enforces the law. As I have said before, these residents deserve action.
Finally, I note that I am very much open to improvements to this legislation and I invite all members of the Assembly to work constructively with the opposition to get this done. Whether amendments or suggestions come from the government or from the community, we are open to doing everything we need to do to get the best outcome for all Canberrans. I commend the bill to the Assembly.
Debate (on motion by Mr Gentleman) adjourned to the next sitting.
Hydrotherapy services in south Canberra
MRS DUNNE (Ginninderra) (10.21): I move:
That this Assembly:
(1) notes:
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