Page 3897 - Week 11 - Tuesday, 19 September 2017

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Four days later, yesterday, the Canberra Times reported a new settlement date of 20 October. Minister, when were you advised of the 20 October settlement date and who made that decision?

MS BERRY: The decision to revise the settlement date for the land in Hume was advised to me on Friday.

Mrs Dunne: Who made the decision?

MS BERRY: The Suburban Land Agency.

MS LEE: Minister, on what basis was the decision made to extend the settlement date for the third time?

MS BERRY: I am advised that the decision was made to revise the date for the settlement to ensure that a settlement could be reached.

MS LAWDER: Minister, what assurance can you give that the government will terminate the contract if this new deadline is not met or, in any event, seek recovery of penalties under the contract?

MS BERRY: I can confirm that if settlement is not reached, the government will pursue penalties. I am advised that the revised settlement date is the date for settlement to be reached.

National Multicultural Festival—planning update

MR STEEL: My question is to the Minister for Multicultural Affairs. Can you please update the Assembly on the government’s progress in organising the 2018 National Multicultural Festival.

MS STEPHEN-SMITH: I thank Mr Steel for his question. Earlier this year, the National Multicultural Festival celebrated its 21st birthday. The 22nd event will be staged on Friday, 16 February to Sunday, 18 February 2018. While Canberrans get to see the benefits and successes of multiculturalism year round, the National Multicultural Festival serves to highlight, showcase and celebrate the wonderful diversity of our city.

Each year, the festival organisers work very closely with a range of stakeholders. Next year’s festival will be no different. The festival project team has undertaken extensive consultations with CBD business owners along with residents, embassies, entertainment and showcase coordinators, contractors and Volunteering and Contact ACT to ensure that further improvements are made to the 2018 festival. This consultation has also informed the 2018 National Multicultural Festival participation policy.

The festival team has also held several consultation sessions concerning the 2018 festival footprint. This involved working with a range of government agencies to


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