Released 25/07/2017
The ACT Government has taken a major step towards a new ‘City Deal’ for Canberra and the region.
We have agreed to an MoU with the Commonwealth Government, which is the foundation to working together on a City Deal: a partnership between our governments to shape Canberra’s future as a liveable city with a diverse economy.
The ACT currently enjoys one of the lowest unemployment levels in the country and we want to ensure that the Government continues to support our local workforce through a steady supply of major infrastructure projects. A future city deal for Canberra will allow the territory to further progress projects that we have planned to boost our economy into the future.
The ACT Government will also look to cement the role of Canberra as the national centre of public administration in a future city deal, following announcements this week by the Federal government to further decentralise the Australia Public Service. Further investment in award winning national institutions such as Questacon, the National Gallery, the National Museum of Australia, the War Memorial and the National Library is another area the ACT Government is keen to discuss as part of a future city deal.
Projects we are investigating through a city deal with the Commonwealth Government include:
- Light Rail Stage 2 from the City to Woden and a possible Russell and/or airport extension;
- a National Centre for Innovation Impact, which would support the creation of tomorrow’s businesses by building on the success of the CBR Innovation network;
- realignment or restructure of Parkes Way to reduce traffic congestion, improve CBD productivity and support the viability of city-defining proposed projects; and
- enhance our road freight networks and regional transport connectivity with Queanbeyan-Palerang Regional Council and Yass Valley Council to boost tourism and reduce congestion and travel time.
We will continue to work closely with the Canberra Region Joint Organisation to capitalise on these new opportunities for growth and to ensure the region can support increased tourism, commercial, commuting and freight activity.
The ACT has demonstrated our capacity to work with the Commonwealth Government on infrastructure projects that have made our city even better, including stage one of light rail and upgrades to Majura Parkway and Constitution Avenue.
By working together we can deliver broader economic benefits to both jurisdictions and the Canberra Region.
- Statement ends -
Andrew Barr, MLA | Media Releases