Page 1236 - Week 05 - Tuesday, 11 May 2021

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Given the global situation, I expect that the requirement for mandatory quarantine for returning travellers will continue for some time. Our approach will continue to be guided by the Australian Health Protection Principal Committee advice and careful assessment of the risk to our community.

We have also seen in the last week the discovery of new community cases which are not easily linked to returned international travellers in hotel quarantine, demonstrating the need for everyone to be aware of the potential for infection. We know that our COVID-19 vaccination program will help to protect the community. Once again, I encourage Canberrans to please book your appointment to have your COVID-19 vaccination when it is your turn to do so.

I am pleased that we are doing well in the ACT and congratulate every Canberran on contributing to these efforts. I present the following paper:

COVID-19—Update on Government response—Ministerial statement, 11 May 2021.

I move:

That the Assembly take note of the paper.

Question resolved in the affirmative.

Bradyn Dillon—coronial inquest

Ministerial statement

MS STEPHEN-SMITH (Kurrajong—Minister for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Affairs, Minister for Families and Community Services and Minister for Health) (10.56): I rise again today to make a statement to the Assembly following the release of the report of the coronial inquest into the death of Bradyn Dillon. Bradyn’s tragic death has had a devastating impact on his family and on many people in our community. I extend my deepest sympathies and those of the government to Bradyn’s mother, to his family and to everyone who knew him.

I also acknowledge and thank every person who participated in the inquest. The circumstances of Bradyn’s death are horrific and heartbreaking, and I know that this has been an incredibly difficult process for those who gave evidence in the hearings. This includes staff across Child and Youth Protection Services, other ACT government directorates and community agencies, who work daily and diligently to ensure children and young people are safe, strong and connected to family and the community.

Support is available to staff and community members who were involved in the inquest and for those who are impacted by its findings. I encourage those who have been affected by this process and the reporting around it to reach out, talk to someone and seek support. There are services available to support you, including Lifeline, 1800RESPECT and the Domestic Violence Crisis Service. We know that family


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