Page 2517 - Week 08 - Wednesday, 13 August 2014

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Madam Speaker, in conclusion, it is time for a total change to the way planning in the territory operates. We need a complete simplification of the system. The new minister should commit to a comprehensive review of the territory plan and genuine consultation with the community about how to bring this about.

At 6 pm, in accordance with standing order 34, the debate was interrupted. The motion for the adjournment of the Assembly having been put and negatived, the debate was resumed.

MADAM SPEAKER: Before I call the next speaker, I want to reflect and do a mea culpa. I have just reflected on the discussion. Ms Berry sought to speak on the last question again, and I did not give her the call, and after that Ms Lawder sought to make a personal explanation. I presumed she was using standing order 46. On reflection, it is possible that both members may have been intending to use standing order 47, because it referred to the debate. On reflection, I think I may have made a wrong call, especially in the case of Ms Berry, because the question was still open for debate. So I apologise to Ms Berry; I think I made the wrong call.

However, having admitted that I have done the wrong thing, could I seek the indulgence of the members who wish to make a statement and ask that we do it either before we go to the adjournment debate, rather than interrupt this debate, which is a different question.

I do apologise to members. On reflection, I may have been a little short and not sought enough information from the members about what it was that they were going to do, certainly in the case of Ms Berry, because the question had not been put about the appropriation. Standing order 47 would have stood up, but after the question had been put neither 46 nor 47 really would have stood up. So I do apologise. But, with the indulgence of members, can we put a pin in that, and if members want to make a statement, can we do it before the adjournment debate?

The question is that the appropriation in relation to the Environment and Planning Directorate schedule 1A part 1.11 be agreed to.

MR GENTLEMAN (Brindabella—Minister for Planning, Minister for Community Services, Minister for Workplace Safety and Industrial Relations, Minister for Children and Young People and Minister for Ageing) (6.01): I reiterate that this 2014-15 budget reinforces the ACT government’s commitment to achieving positive outcomes for development in the territory. The ACT remains a leader in developing and implementing sustainable outcomes which have greatly improved the overall amenity of the city. Recent surveys by the Property Council of Australia have confirmed what we already know—that the ACT is the place to live within Australia, and that the ACT government continues to deliver for the city and our community through measures in this budget.

The city centre remains the heart of our great city, and this status will be enhanced by our commitment to the city plan, which will reinvigorate the city centre and guarantee it remains an inviting place to meet, live and work. The $150,000 allocated in this


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