Page 4289 - Week 12 - Tuesday, 13 October 2009
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90 days for priority allocations, reforming the operation of the community housing sector and introducing a transitional housing program for refugees and those fleeing domestic violence. I also oversaw the sale of Fraser Court, providing an additional $8 million for public housing, and replaced the 1,200 public housing properties cut by the previous Liberal government.
I put in place initiatives to address homelessness and help people escape the cycle of poverty. I always actively supported initiatives that gave encouragement to housing tenants, such as joint champions and tenant of the month. I have also always actively campaigned to break down the many negative stereotypes accorded to public housing tenants, the majority of whom are model ACT citizens.
The portfolio of Multicultural Affairs was very dear to me. I worked hard to make Canberra’s model of multiculturalism the most successful in the country, and the ACT is now internationally acclaimed for its approach to cultural diversity. You are all familiar with the passion and drive with which I have defended the right of each and every Canberran to share their culture, faith and traditions, safely and without fear. And I commend the people of the ACT, who have embraced multiculturalism in this city so comprehensively.
As Minister for Industrial Relations, I have overseen the introduction of a bank of legislation that will protect the rights of workers and guarantee them a safe workplace. However, the item that gives me the greatest personal satisfaction is the banning of consumer fireworks, and I thank all those Canberrans who have contacted me to express their support for the government’s decision.
As Minister for Corrections, I oversaw the reception of the first prisoners into the AMC, introduced a restorative justice model underpinned to the principles of the ACT’s Human Rights Act and closed the archaic and disgraceful Belconnen Remand Centre. To this day, it still amazes me that the Liberal opposition wanted to retain it.
As Minister for Ageing, I have been passionate in pursuing initiatives that promote healthy, safe and socially inclusive ageing and was pleased to announce recently that the social housing element of the stimulus package will involve the construction of homes for the ageing, which will help many older Canberrans to age in place.
I am delighted that Ms Burch has been elevated to the ministry and I wish her every success. She brings experience, enthusiasm and great skills to the position and will be an excellent minister for the territory. She is a wonderful addition to cabinet and I wish her well.
I would also like to thank all the dedicated, passionate and devoted staff of the various departments and agencies that I have worked with over my years as minister. These men and women are the real troopers in the implementation of government services in the ACT in the face of such issues as the GFC and the constant and, in many cases, unfair and baseless criticism.
I would also like to pay tribute to the community leaders, advocates and tireless workers and volunteers who, through words, ideas and deeds, have given me so much feedback, knowledge and information in my ministerial work. They are the true heroes of Canberra.
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