Presentations to Cabinet

Three presentations were provided to Cabinet in relation to current policy issues.  Relevant officials joined with Ministers to discuss matters of strategic policy development and planning.

Implementing the Fees and Fines Recommendations of the Targeted Assistance Strategy

Cabinet considered a proposed model of flexible payment options for Government fees and charges as outlined in the Targeted Assistance Strategy Fees and Fines Report.  The proposed direction builds on recently passed legislation that allows additional options for people who experience difficulty in paying traffic and parking infringement penalties under road transport legislation.

Climate Change Vulnerability Assessment Framework

Cabinet agreed the Climate Change Vulnerability Assessment Framework for Infrastructure.  The Framework, previously released as a discussion paper for public consultation in April 2012, has been developed for assessing the vulnerability of ACT infrastructure to climate change consistent with the Council of Australian Governments reform agenda.

The Framework provides Government with a diagnostic tool to assist in considering climate change and its impacts during the planning, development, renewal, maintenance and management of public infrastructure.

Molonglo River Park Concept Plan - progress report

Cabinet agreed to adopt the proposed Molonglo River Park Concept Plan as the guiding framework for ongoing implementation of conservation, recreation and bushfire management activities in the Molonglo River Corridor, which adjoins new development areas at Molonglo Valley.  The Plan has an implementation time frame of around 30 years.

The plan will guide detailed design work and operational plans for landscape, recreation, trails and fire management areas, which are essential to facilitate the land release program at Molonglo, and to meet statutory nature conservation requirements of the Commonwealth and ACT Governments.

The Plan has been prepared by experts in ecological, recreation and bushfire management planning, in consultation with an extensive range of government and community stakeholders.

COAG Environmental Regulation Reform - Bilateral Negotiations

To facilitate the ACT’s commitment to the COAG environmental regulatory reform agenda, Cabinet agreed that ACT officials continue negotiating with the Commonwealth.

Carbon Neutral ACT Government Framework

Cabinet agreed the Carbon Neutral ACT Government Framework which outlines the long term strategy for the Government to achieve carbon neutrality in its operations by 2020.  The Framework will be publicly available in early 2013 in conjunction with the release of a greenhouse gas inventory for ACT Government.  Further information on the Government’s commitment to lead by example on climate change will be available on The Environment and Sustainable Development Directorate website from September 2012.

2012-16 ACT Languages Policy

Cabinet agreed to the 2012-16 ACT Languages Policy.  The Policy details the ACT Government’s four-themed commitment in relation to ‘languages’ that:

* all Canberrans will have the opportunity to acquire English language skills;
* all Canberrans will be able to access language services to improve their use of government-funded services and programs;
* all Canberrans will be encouraged to learn and treasure languages other than English; and
* embrace the economic benefits of the knowledge of other languages and cultures to increase tourism, global markets, trade and international education.

Centenary of Canberra, Quarterly Report No. 9

Cabinet was provided an update on the Centenary of Canberra program.  Cabinet noted major updates and details of the upcoming launch of the Centenary of Canberra program on Tuesday 4 September 2012.  Details of the Launch and the full program of events are available on the Centenary of Canberra website.

Appointments

Government Procurement Board

Cabinet agreed to endorse the proposed appointment of Ms Sue Morrell as the Public Official member and Chair of the Government Procurement Board.

ACT Screen Investment Fund Committee

Cabinet agreed to endorse the proposed re-appointment of Dr Andrew Pike as the Chair of the ACT Screen Investment Fund Committee and the following people as part time members:
* Mr David Noakes;
* Ms Susan MacKinnon;
* Dr Julia de Roeper and; and
* The Executive Director, Business Development (ex Officio).

Legal Aid Review Committee

Cabinet agreed to endorse the proposed appointment of the following people as part-time Bar Association panel members of the Legal Aid Review Committee:
* Mr James Lawton;
* Ms Kristy Katavic;
* Mr Christopher McKeown; and
* Mr John Masters.

Public Interest Monitor

Cabinet agreed to endorse the proposed re-appointment of the following people as part-time members of the Public Interest Monitor panel:
* Mr James Sabharwal;
* Mr Donald Malcomson;
* Ms Pamela Burton;
* Mr Stephen Whybrow; and
* Mr John Purnell SC.

Government Schools Education Council

Cabinet agreed to endorse a proposed appointment to the Government Schools Education Council, subject to Standing Committee consultation.

Canberra Institute of Technology Advisory Council

Cabinet agreed to endorse a proposed appointment to the Canberra Institute of Technology Advisory Council, subject to Standing Committee consultation.

Secretary to Cabinet