Page 483 - Week 02 - Wednesday, 15 February 2017

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We are committed to signing contracts for light rail stage 2, the extension to Woden, during this term. As a first step, transport Canberra and its advisers will consider project details, such as the exact light rail alignment, number of stops and locations, connectivity with other forms of transport, procurement processes and the delivery model to be adopted.

Transport Canberra is now establishing governance and project management processes, commencing discussion with Canberra Metro on light rail stage 1 and working across government with the NCA to identify potential risks, constraints and opportunities of this city-shaping project. Most importantly, we look forward to continued conversations with the Canberra community about stage 2 of light rail.

MS CHEYNE: Minister, what impact is the delivery of the light rail network having on local jobs in the Canberra economy?

MS FITZHARRIS: The impact of the light rail network on local jobs is tremendous. Not only will light rail deliver a modern, integrated transport system that can meet the needs of our growing city; it will also deliver a major boost to our economy, signs of which we are seeing strongly already. It will provide opportunities for local industry and generate thousands of local jobs. During the construction phase of stage 1 alone, it is estimated that Canberra’s light rail will generate over 3½ thousand direct and indirect jobs. The project will also increase demand for various skills and qualifications, supporting more job opportunities in Canberra, including training and development activities.

Canberra Metro has a contractual obligation for local industry participation and has recently finalised its local industry participation plan. This addresses the ways in which Canberra Metro will identify, create, communicate and provide opportunities to local industry in Canberra and throughout the region. Canberra Metro has committed to 70 per cent of jobs to be sourced locally during the construction phase, and it is already exceeding this, with more than 80 per cent of Canberra Metro’s employees being sourced locally.

I am also pleased to let the Assembly know that there are 12 graduates currently working on the project, with an increase to occur this academic year. Engineering students from ADFA at the University of New South Wales Canberra will commence work placements with Canberra Metro as part of a significant and very exciting MOU between the ACT government and the Department of Defence.

Following the ACT government’s initial industry briefing at the commencement of the procurement phase, Canberra Metro has been engaging with local businesses within the ACT region to build a strong network of subcontractors and suppliers. We have also partnered with the Canberra Business Chamber on a light rail business link program. This collaboration maximises the benefits of the light rail project for our city, the economy and the Canberra community. Over 100 local suppliers and businesses have attended events. To date, 21 Canberra Metro work packages have been awarded, with 13 going to local businesses.


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