Andrew Barr MLA is ACT Chief Minister.
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 Plan which will support the growth of the city over the coming decades.
Work has also commenced on the next stages of light rail, with 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 supported 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.
More for cost of living, healthcare and housing as 2024-25 Budget passes
The 2024-25 Budget has passed in the Legislative Assembly [this week], delivering cost-of-living support to Canberrans and more investment in housing, public health and community infrastructure.
Handed down in late June, Canberrans are already benefiting from the Budget. This week, local apprentices and trainees started receiving their $250 support payment to assist with cost-of-living pressures.
Around 43,000 low-income households in Canberra will also benefit from an increase to the Electricity, Gas and Water Rebate. The $800 concessions helping eligible households with their energy and utility costs.
The Government expanded the Future of Education Equity Fund, with an additional $1 million. The Fund has been hugely successful in supporting students and families in need, helping them with the costs of their education. In this term of government, over 12,800 payments have been made from the Fund.
The 2024-25 Budget again delivers a record $2.6 billion investment to ensure Canberrans can access the right care, at the right place and at the right time.
We know that Canberrans want more homes to buy and rent, and they want to see more public, community and affordable housing. That is why the 2024-25 Budget include more than $285 million in funding for housing initiatives – to increase housing choice, access and affordability.
Despite rising costs of service delivery and construction costs, the Territory’s financial position continues to be strong and the economic outlook remains positive. This Budget reflects our priorities and aspirations for our growing community – to be the best place in the country to live, to work, to invest, to study and to call home.
