Labor has delivered a comprehensive package of education reforms and the largest investment in education in the history of self-government to position the ACT to meet the teaching and learning needs of the 21st century.
More than $450 million is being spent renewing our schools and building new schools in Tuggeranong, Belconnen and Gungahlin.
A commitment of nearly $35 million to information technology in schools will ensure the ACT continues to lead the nation in the use of IT in the classroom.
A focus on investing in early childhood education and innovative models of delivery underpin the development of four new early childhood schools that opened in 2009. They focus on quality education and early intervention, providing a solid foundation for learning for the future.
Labor has reformed our planning system. We have done this so that planning is focused on preparing our community for the challenge of climate change, making housing more affordable and making it easier to do business in the territory through system simpler, faster and more effective planning regulation.
Planning and land release is an effective tool for Government to confront these significant community challenges. Control of planning makes it easier for Government to ensure the community addresses the environmental challenges we face, it provides Government with a way to increase the supply of housing and therefore make housing more affordable and it allows Government to build new communities like Gungahlin in a socially, economically and environmentally sustainable way.
Labor believes that regular exercise and active living establish the foundation for a happy, healthy and productive lifestyle. We recognise that an active community requires access to high quality facilities.
We have invested heavily in sporting infrastructure across the Territory including new facilities such as swimming pools and neighbourhood ovals which are being built in areas of high population growth.
Tourism makes a significant and growing contribution to the ACT economy and community, and it plays a critical role in defining our national and international image.
The diverse and extensive range of major events and tourist attractions, including the national institutions, draw visitors to the region. Events include Floriade, the National Folk Festival, the National Multicultural Festival, the Science Festival, Summernats, the Fireside Festival and many others.
Labor has delivered a five-year strategic plan (2008-2013) which will articulate the future direction and activities of Australian Capital Tourism.
An integrated e-strategy has resulted in a new visitcanberra.com.au website, improving retail, media and trade content to assist with wider exposure.
Authorised by A.Barr, Australian Labor Party (ACT Branch), 21 Torrens Street, Braddon, 2612. Site by Kudasai