Released 05/09/2024
Over the last four years, the ACT Government has delivered a progressive and practical agenda for Canberrans.
This includes the historic passing of the Voluntary Assisted Dying legislation – a reform that was decades in the making.
Thanks to the achievements of this Government, Canberrans now have access to better public healthcare with the opening of the Canberra Hospital expansion – the largest health infrastructure project in the city’s history.
The Government has also implemented a number of reforms in our public education system, including a trial of free meals in schools. The Future of Education Equity Fund also commenced this term and has provided over 12,800 payments to families to help with school expenses.
We also rolled out free preschool education for three-year-olds, giving children the best possible start to their learning journey.
The Sustainable Household Scheme, which commenced this term, has been one of the most successful schemes delivered in the history of self-Government. Over $51.6 million in savings for Canberrans has been generated from the scheme.
Delivering more housing has been a key objective of this Government. Not only has the Government completed the largest renewal of public housing stock in the ACT’s history, but we have also implemented a new Territory which will support the growth of the city over the coming decades.
Work has also commenced on the next stages of light rail, which the raising of London Circuit paving the way for the construction of light rail to Commonwealth Park.
Canberrans are used to leading the nation on policy reforms, and this track record has continued over this term. The ACT has implemented a progressive approach to drug laws including Government support drug testing schemes, raised the age of criminal responsibility, and enhanced abortion services delivered in the nation’s capital.
These accomplishments have occurred despite the pressure placed on the Government through the COVID-19 pandemic and high national inflation. Despite this, the ACT has continued to build upon 34 years of continuous economic growth, and maintained one of the strongest employment markets in the country.
- Statement ends -
Andrew Barr, MLA | Media Releases