Released 06/06/2019
William Slim Drive is set to be renamed following a review into place names in the ACT.
The review tabled in the ACT Legislative Assembly today followed community interest in existing place names, particularly Haig Park and William Slim Drive.
The ACT Government is ensuring that commemoration of people through our roads, parks and public places is consistent with a modern, inclusive and progressive Canberra.
I intend to rename William Slim Drive following careful consideration including allegations made to the ACT Government, a submission made by the Slim family and the recent Royal Commission into Institutional Responses to Child Sexual Abuse.
I have asked the Place Names Committee for further advice on the process and new naming options and I expect to formally rename the road on duplication.
Child sexual abuse is abhorrent and we need to ensure our public place naming does not cause ongoing hurt to Canberrans.
I have decided to keep the name of Haig Park and install new signage telling the contested history of Field Marshal Haig’s wartime legacy. This will recognise differing views and help inform discussion around Australia’s experience in WWI.
The Place Names Review found robust processes exist for place naming in the ACT.
It also made recommendations about ensuring the Committee has processes to ensure place names meet community standards and suggested improving avenues for community input into the place naming process.
I have agreed to all recommendations put forward in the review and have requested that they be implemented within the next 12 months.
This will include introducing a set of principles for considering renaming proposals and developing a transparent online feedback and complaints process.
A copy of the review is available at: www.planning.act.gov.au/.
- Statement ends -
Mick Gentleman, MLA | Media Releases
Media Contacts
| Name | Phone | Mobile | |
|---|---|---|---|
James Webber |
(02) 6205 7402 |
0466 023 084 |