Page 1369 - Week 05 - Thursday, 18 June 2020

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I have said it before and I will say it again now: Ms Le Couteur, thank you for your words, but I would much rather have your vote. As for Mr Steel, I am almost embarrassed for him at his lame response. At the time of the announcement of our commitment he dismissed it out of hand, flippantly, and predictably brushing it off as mere political tokenism. He has done so once again in this debate. I suspect Mr Steel needs to do a little more homework.

He suggested seedlings would be trampled or stolen or otherwise not survive. May I direct the minister to government plantings in Weston Creek, in his own electorate. Why plant them if he believes they will be stolen or trampled? I also suggest that the minister familiarise himself with the work of the Australian Tree Seed Centre right here in Canberra. For over 50 years they have been collecting, researching and supplying quality, fully documented tree seeds to both domestic and overseas customers. They must believe it is tangible and they must know what they are talking about—they have been a successful business for over 50 years.

Minister Steel could also do well to support our own CIT and enrol in one of their basic horticulture and backyard gardening courses to understand the importance of planting young trees to give them the best chance to acclimatise. The minister alleged that we were unrealistic and dreaming in our commitment to planning and caring for one million trees over the next decade, putting it squarely in the too-hard basket. Yet, funnily enough, in cohort with the Greens his amendment calls on the ACT government to potentially plant well in excess of a million trees. What is it, Mr Steel? Is it too hard and unrealistic and unachievable or is it going to be mere puffery?

The importance of trees for the future of our city—any city—cannot be understated. The Canberra Liberals firmly believe our commitment to planting and caring for one million trees over the next decade will make a real difference in shaping our city for future generations. Whilst ACT Labor and the Greens continue to take extraordinary steps to protect their own political alliance over supporting real action on caring for our environment, the Canberra Liberals will continue to ensure that we commit to taking practical and tangible steps for a greener, cleaner future for all Canberrans.

Question put:

That the amendment be agreed to.

The Assembly voted—

Question resolved in the affirmative.

Original question, as amended, resolved in the affirmative.

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