The year in review

Australians enthusiastically embrace the commemoration and celebration of milestones and none is more significant than a centenary. For our National Capital, celebrations marking the Centenary of Canberra began in 2008 with the centenary of the selection of the site for Canberra and will continue until 2013 when we celebrate the centenary of the naming of the city itself.

Parliamentary interest in the National Capital remains high. On 16 July 2008, the Joint Standing Committee on the National Capital and External Territories tabled The Way Forward – Inquiry into the Role of the National Capital Authority. The report contains 22 recommendations. The former Minister for Home Affairs, the Hon Bob Debus MP, responded to the report with immediate agreement to the first recommendation – that the government affirm its direct and enduring commitment to the future of the National Capital on behalf of all Australians.

On 11 December 2008, the government tabled its formal response to the Joint Standing Committee’s report, in which it accepted 13 recommendations in full, in part, or in principle; it did not accept four recommendations and noted the remaining five. The government has convened an inter-departmental committee to examine the extent and delivery of Commonwealth responsibilities in the National Capital and an inter-governmental committee to review planning and land management responsibilities in the Territory. At the time of writing, the inter-departmental committee’s work was nearing completion. The inter-governmental committee has recently commenced work and is scheduled to report to government by the end of 2009. A key recommendation of The Way Forward report was that the Authority Chairman be required to appear before the Joint Standing Committee twice each year. Agreeing this was an important part of the Authority becoming more transparent and accountable, Acting Chairman Professor Don Aitkin and I appeared before it for the first hearing on 17 June 2009.

Through the Joint Standing Committee, local media and other fora, the public continues to maintain a high level of interest in the Authority’s future. While the outcomes of the inter-departmental committee and the inter-governmental committee are not yet known, the Authority still has clear statutory responsibilities and it is committed to delivering them.

The Authority is maintaining a pragmatic approach to its responsibilities; it has a clear focus on separating core functions from discretionary activities to enable best allocation of budget resources. The important role of the Authority as custodian of the national interest in Canberra is foremost in our minds as we plan, promote, enhance and maintain this great national asset for all Australians.

As part of our planning responsibility, we released two new draft heritage management plans and one draft amendment to the National Capital Plan during 2008–09. We also finalised three Urban Design Guidelines and six development control plans, and granted 289 works approvals. Our Section 63 Urban Design Guidelines received a commendation in the category Urban Design – Built Ideas and Achievement from the Planning Institute of Australia (ACT Chapter). In the coming year, we will continue our program of preparing heritage management plans and will also make a strategic contribution to the inter-governmental committee examining planning arrangements in the Territory.

One of our core functions is to foster awareness of Canberra as the National Capital. Our greatest asset in delivering this function is the National Capital Exhibition at Regatta Point. As we move towards the centenary of Canberra in 2013, the National Capital Exhibition will host a number of special exhibitions to mark specific milestones. The first is a temporary interactive display called A Capital Choice: The Selection of Canberra as the Site of our National Capital 1908–2008.

As custodian of more than $700 million of public assets in the heart of our National Capital, the Authority has invested in updating its asset management capability. During 2008–09, we replaced our financial and asset management information systems with an integrated system to enable us to standardise and optimise our asset management processes. Our two most important guides when allocating budget resources for asset management are public safety and asset protection.

We subjected all bridges and roads under our management to a condition assessment during 2008–09 and, based on the assessment outcomes, updated our program of road and bridge maintenance works. The highest priority major works were completed during 2008–09. We will continue to examine and test work methods to prolong the useful life of our assets and, whenever asset replacement is necessary, will investigate new technologies and methods to ensure we achieve best value for money.

The Authority is also responsible for managing some of our most scenic and significant landscapes, including the areas surrounding Anzac Parade, Commonwealth Park, Kings Park and the Parliamentary Zone. One of the greatest challenges the Authority faces is maintaining the cultural value of these landscapes over time in a manner that responds to predicted climate change.

Canberra’s urban forest is ageing. Trees, like all living organisms, have a finite life. Unfortunately, trees of a like-type that are planted at the same time will generally start declining at around the same time. Canberra was developed and planted in clear stages and many of the early tree plantings are reaching the end of their lives. Without a deliberate and cohesive strategy, we risk losing many of the best landscape qualities of the National Capital. The Authority has formed a strong partnership with the ACT Government to renew the ageing urban forest. During 2008–09, an expert reference group was established to help formulate key renewal criteria and decision models. The Authority will use this work early in 2009–10 to guide a significant number of tree replacements on National Land.

It is important that the public record reflect the transition of leadership in the Authority that occurred during 2008–09 and to thank all those who have departed for their contributions to the Authority and to Canberra. Mr Michael Ball AM and Ms Annabelle Pegrum AM left the roles of Chairman and Chief Executive respectively on 8 August 2008. Their service as members of the Authority was acknowledged in the 2007–08 Annual Report. Professor Don Aitkin was appointed Acting Chairman on 2 September 2008 and I was appointed full-time Chief Executive on 1 May 2009.

Mr Christopher Doogan AM was Interim Chief Executive between 18 August and 4 December 2008. At a time of uncertainty for Authority staff, Mr Doogan brought a personable approach to the challenge of such an important short-term engagement. His steadying influence, sound judgment and strong leadership contributed positively to maintaining staff morale, operational delivery and ongoing strategic focus across the organisation.

Mr John Murray’s term as a member of the Authority expired on 8 May 2009. Mr Murray brought a strong urban planning perspective to the Authority. He worked closely with his peers and staff to develop and implement a number of significant planning reforms that will leave a lasting mark on our National Capital – including the Griffin Legacy Amendments.

On 6 June 2009, the Minister for Home Affairs, the Hon Brendan O’Connor MP, announced the appointment of Mr Peter Core as a new member of the Authority. I welcome Mr Core to the Authority and look forward to his contribution to the National Capital.

Mr Todd Rohl resigned from the position of Managing Director Planning and Urban Design on 24 October 2008. Mr Rohl played a leading role in the development and passage of the Griffin Legacy Amendments to the National Capital Plan. These amendments aroused a level of debate about the future form of Canberra as our National Capital that continues today. To the extent that it demonstrates the level of passion we have for our National Capital, that debate should be encouraged. Mr Rohl deserves recognition for his role in forming the future shape of Canberra. Mr Andrew Smith has filled the role of Acting Executive Director, National Capital Plan, since Mr Rohl’s departure.

Managing the important functions of the National Capital though this difficult economic period will be a challenge for the Authority. While it would be possible to find a valid use for an infinite stream of funding, the Authority has developed, and will implement, a clear strategy to enable delivery of all core functions within the allocated budget resources.

Over the coming year, the Authority will reinforce its commitment to protecting the National Capital’s heritage. A number of heritage management plans will be progressed or finalised and we will start implementing those plans. We will redouble our efforts to engage in genuine and meaningful consultation with key stakeholders, with Australians generally and with the residents of Canberra. I encourage everyone to make the most of the opportunities presented to them to share their memories of the past as well as their visions for the future of our great city. That is not to say that our decisions will be made on a populist basis, but it is essential that our decisions take account of a wide array of views and that we demonstrate a willingness to be publicly accountable for our decisions.

I admire the efforts and commitment of Authority staff and volunteers and thank them for their hard work, loyalty to their mates and keen sense of purpose; this dedicated group of people truly reflects Australian ideals. There is a great deal of work yet to be done, but with their skills and passion I am confident we will succeed.

Professor Aitkin often says, ‘Canberra is unfinished business’. That is a sentiment most of us share. The great challenge for each subsequent generation of Australians is to ensure our contribution to that ‘unfinished business’ is delivered in a way that befits Canberra’s special significance as our National Capital. To borrow a few final words from Sir John Sulman (chairman of the Federal Capital Advisory Committee, 1921–24), an early ‘architect’ of Canberra in every sense of the word, ‘If we can all be imbued with the spirit ... the future capital city will be worthy not only of Australia, but will be an example to the world’.

I look forward to making my contribution to this ideal.

Gary Rake
Chief Executive

Structure of this report

During 2008–09 the Authority had three outputs against which it reports:

• Output 1: Canberra and the Australian Capital Territory are planned and developed in accordance with their national significance.
• Output 2: Promotion and awareness of the significance of Canberra as the National Capital.
• Output 3:Advocacy, enhancement and management of the National Capital Estate.

The structure of this annual report addresses the outputs and other reporting requirements.

Chapter 1 describes the Authority’s enabling legislation and its relationship to the Parliament and the Minister. It also provides an overview of the Authority’s management structure, outcomes and outputs structure, resources and assets, and meets the Authority’s performance reporting requirements.

Chapter 2 describes the review, amendment and administration of the National Capital Plan (Output 1).

Chapter 3 describes the Authority’s exhibition and outreach activities (Output 2) that promote Canberra as Australia’s National Capital, both nationally and internationally.

Chapters 4 and 5 describe the Authority’s asset and land management services, capital enhancement services and the administration of National Land (Output 3).

Chapters 6–8 report on governance, corporate, competitive tendering and contracts and other reporting including social justice and equity, diversity and employment and the certificate of compliance.

Financial statements for the year appear at Appendix 1. Additional mandatory reporting is at Appendix 2. The Authority’s resources for outcomes report is at Appendix 3. A glossary and compliance and alphabetical indexes appear at the end of this report.

Contact details

For further information about this report or the National Capital Authority:

Telephone: +61 2 6271 2888
Facsimile: +61 2 6273 4427
Email: This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it

The Authority’s contact officer for this report is Paula Dewhurst on telephone +61 2 6272 2979.

The Authority’s website is <www.nationalcapital.gov.au>

The Authority’s freedom of information contact point is < This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it > or telephone +61 2 6271 2888

The Authority’s library is open one day per month by appointment only and is located at:

Royal Australian Institute of Architects ACT Chapter Office
2A Mugga Way, Red Hill, ACT 2603

Information about the National Capital is available from the National Capital Exhibition at Regatta Point, Commonwealth Park, Canberra:

Open Monday to Friday 9 am to 5 pm; at weekends 10 am to 4 pm
Closed between Christmas and New Year and public holidays except Australia Day and Canberra Days.

1. The National Capital Authority

The National Capital Authority is established under the Australian Capital Territory (Planning and Land Management) Act 1988 (the Act). Part II of the Act establishes the Authority, prescribes its powers and functions, and makes it subject to general ministerial direction. The Minister for Home Affairs administers the Act.

The Authority’s functions, as set out in section 6 of the Act, are:

1. to prepare and administer a National Capital Plan (see Chapter 2)
2. to keep the National Capital Plan under constant review and to propose amendments to it when necessary (see Chapter 2)
3. on behalf of the Commonwealth, to commission works to be carried out in Designated Areas in accordance with the National Capital Plan where neither a Department of State of the Commonwealth nor any Commonwealth authority has the responsibility to commission those works (see Chapter 5)
4. to recommend to the Minister the carrying out of works that it considers desirable to maintain or enhance the character of the National Capital (see Chapter 5)
5. to foster an awareness of Canberra as the National Capital (see Chapter 3)
6. with approval of the Minister, to perform planning services for any person or body, whether within Australia or overseas (see Chapter 8)
7. with the Minister’s approval, on behalf of the Commonwealth, to manage National Land designated in writing by the Minister as land required for the special purposes of Canberra as the National Capital (see Chapter 4).

The Authority’s statutory functions comprehensively establish the extent of the Australian Government’s interest in the National Capital.

Minister’s powers

The Minister responsible for administering the Act has a range of specific powers under the Act.

Amendments to the National Capital Plan are subject to the Minister’s approval. Either House of Parliament can disallow them, in whole or in part. None were disallowed in 2008–09.

Section 20A provides that the Minister, having considered a draft National Capital Plan amendment submitted by the Authority, may approve it without alteration or refer it back to the Authority with directions to consider further consultations or consider suggested alterations or both. No draft National Capital Plan amendments were referred back to the Authority in 2008–09.

Section 7(1) provides that the Minister may give the Authority general directions in writing about the performance of its functions. No directions were given in 2008–09.

The Minister also has powers under other legislation relating to management of National Land, namely:

• National Land Ordinance 1989 and applied provisions of:
  • City Area Leases Ordinance 1936
  • City Area Leases Regulations
  • Crown Lands Act 1884 (NSW)
  • Dedication by User Limitation Act 1902 (NSW)
  • Lakes Ordinance 1976
  • Leases Ordinance 1918
  • Leases (Special Purposes) Ordinance 1925
  • Leases Regulations
  • Protection of Lands Ordinance 1937
  • Public Roads Act 1902 (NSW)
  • Recovery of Lands Ordinance 1929
  • Roads and Public Places Ordinance 1937
  • Trespass on Commonwealth Lands Ordinance 1932
• National Land (Parking) Ordinance 1994
• National Land (Parking) (Consequential Amendments) Ordinance 1994
• National Memorials Ordinance 1928

Australian Parliament

The Authority’s relationship with the Australian Parliament has two main elements, namely:

• Either House of Parliament may disallow amendments to the National Capital Plan tabled by the Minister under the Act (see Chapter 2 for details of amendments to the Plan in 2008–09).
• The Parliament Act 1974 requires that any work undertaken in the Parliamentary Zone must have the approval of both Houses of Parliament. The Authority assesses such proposals and provides advice to the Minister and, through the Minister, provides information to the Joint Standing Committee on the National Capital and External Territories.

The Minister has obligations under section 5(1) of the Parliament Act 1974 to ensure no works are carried out in the Parliamentary Zone unless the Minister has presented the proposal before each House of Parliament and the proposal has been approved by resolution of each House of Parliament. The Parliamentary Precincts Act 1988 places this obligation in respect of works in the Parliamentary Precincts on the Presiding Officers.

In 2008–09, the Authority prepared three proposals for the Minister to lay before both Houses of Parliament in accordance with section 5(1) of the Parliament Act 1974. The Reconciliation Place Pavement Artwork, National Portrait Gallery Forecourt Sculpture, and the Old Parliament House Cooling Enclosure were all approved by resolution of both Houses.
The Authority was also required to grant separate works approvals for these proposals.

In 2008–09, the Authority granted works approval to one proposal for works within the Parliamentary Precincts following tabling by the Presiding Officers and approval by both Houses. This was for the Parliament House Childcare Centre.

In addition, the Authority approved 28 other minor works in the Parliamentary Zone, under the ‘de minimus’ principle and the Minister and the Joint Standing Committee on the National Capital and External Territories were duly advised (see Table 1).

Joint Standing Committee on the National Capital and External Territories

The resolution of appointment by the Parliament for the Joint Standing Committee on the National Capital and External Territories enables it to inquire into matters that affect the National Capital, National Capital Plan amendments and works in the Parliamentary Zone. The responsible Minister or the Presiding Officers of either House of Parliament may refer matters to the Joint Standing Committee.

At the request of the former Minister for Home Affairs, the Hon Bob Debus MP, in April 2008 the Committee conducted an inquiry into the role of the National Capital Authority.

The Authority provided a comprehensive submission to the inquiry, as well a number of supplementary submissions and additional information. The Authority also appeared at public hearings on 21 April 2008 and 2 May 2008. The Joint Standing Committee presented its report, The Way Forward – Inquiry into the Role of the National Capital Authority, on 16 July 2008¹ (The Authority’s submissions, hearing transcripts and the Committee’s report are available at http://www.aph.gov.au/house/committee/ncet/natcapauth/index.htm).

The Government’s response was tabled in each House of Parliament on 16 December 2008² (The Response is available at http://www.aph.gov.au/house/committee/ncet/reports.htm).In its response, the Government undertook to establish an inter-governmental committee to review planning and land management responsibilities. The inter-governmental committee is expected to report to the Prime Minister in November 2009.

Recommendation 3 of The Way Forward report recommended that the Australian Capital Territory (Planning and Land Management) Act 1988 be amended to require the Chairperson of the Authority to appear twice a year before the Joint Standing Committee. Although the Government only agreed to this recommendation in principle, the Authority’s Acting Chairman, Professor Don Aitkin AO, appeared before the Joint Standing Committee in a public hearing on 17 June 2009³ (Transcripts of the hearing are available at http://www.aph.gov.au/house/committee/ncet/NCA2009/hearings.htm).

Following a request from the former Minister for Home Affairs, on 26 February 2009 the Joint Standing Committee resolved to inquire into and report on the Immigration Bridge Australia proposal to construct a bridge on Lake Burley Griffin to commemorate the contribution of immigration to Australia. The inquiry’s terms of reference were:

The Authority provided a submission to the inquiry, as well as additional information as requested by the Committee, and appeared at public hearings on 30 March 2009 and 1 April 2009. The Authority’s submission to the inquiry addressed the first and third Terms of Reference only as fundraising actions undertaken are a matter for Immigration Bridge Australia and are not related to the statutory responsibilities of the Authority. The submission sought to clarify the Authority’s role to date in providing advice to Immigration Bridge Australia and to convey the Authority’s genuine efforts to ensure stakeholders’ views are taken into account.

The Joint Standing Committee presented its report on 29 May 2009⁴ (The Authority’s submissions, hearing transcripts and the Committee’s report are available at http://www.aph.gov.au/house/committee/ncet/IBA%20proposal/index.htm). The Government is yet to respond to the report.

Efficiency Dividend

On 19 September 2008, the National Capital Authority presented evidence to the Joint Committee of Public Accounts and Audit inquiry into the effects of the ongoing efficiency dividend on smaller public sector agencies.

On 4 December 2008, the Joint Committee of Public Accounts and Audit tabled its report entitled Report 413: The Efficiency Dividend: Size does matter.

Reviews

Inter-agency committee on diplomatic leasing

Following an Australian National Audit Office audit and report on the Authority’s management of national assets in May 2008, the Authority established an inter-agency committee to inform future government policy decisions regarding diplomatic leasing. As at 30 June 2009, the committee had received supportive comments from the Auditor-General and was finalising its recommendations. A report to the Minister is expected early 2009–10. Further information on the committee can be found in Chapter 4.

Inter-government committee on planning

In its response to the Joint Standing Committee on the National Capital and External Territories’ report, The Way Forward, the Government undertook to establish an inter-governmental committee to review planning and land management responsibilities. Further information on the work of the committee can be found in ‘The year in review’.

Authority membership

The Act provides that the Authority consist of a chairman, a chief executive and three other members, all of whom are appointed by the Governor-General. The Chief Executive is full-time while the other four members serve on a part-time basis (section 33 of the Act). The Chief Executive manages the affairs of the Authority under the general directions of the Authority (sections 45 and 46 of the Act). In 2008–09 the members of the Authority were:

Chairman

Prof Don Aitkin was appointed as the acting Chairman of the Authority on 2 September 2008. His original term expired on 31 December 2008 but has been extended until 17 August 2009.

Prof Aitkin is a former vice-chancellor (University of Canberra, 1991–2002), and currently the Chairman of the Cultural Facilities Corporation, the NRMA/ACT Road Safety Trust, and Pro Musica Inc. He was for 12 years the Chairman of the Board of Agrecon Pty Ltd, a satellite imagery company, and also served for six months as its chief executive officer. He has a continuing role with the Canada Foundation for Innovation and the Canadian Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council, as well as with a number of Australian organisations interested in education, research, urban development, and governance. He is a Fellow of the Academy of the Social Sciences in Australia, the Australian College of Education and the Australian Planning Institute. He was the first Chairman of the Australian Research Council (1988–90) and served for six years as a member of the Australian Science and Technology Council. He holds honorary doctorates from the University of Canberra and the University of New England.

An historian and political scientist, he was a professor at Macquarie University and the Australian National University, and is the author of a number of books on Australian history and politics as well as a novel. His most recent book is What Was It All For? The Reshaping of Australia (2005). In past times he was a widely read newspaper columnist in the National Times, Australian Financial Review and The Canberra Times, a contributing editor of Newsweek, and a television and radio commentator.

Chief Executive

Mr Gary Rake was appointed full-time Chief Executive of the Authority on 1 May 2009 for a term of five years.

Mr Rake is a Canberra-born economist and accountant with extensive experience in corporate management. He has held senior management positions in public and private sector organisations with responsibilities including financial and human resource management, emergency management, consumer law regulation, criminal and civil investigations, marketing and internal audit.

Prior to his appointment as full-time Chief Executive, Mr Rake was the Chief Finance Officer of the National Capital Authority and led the Authority’s asset management team. From December 2008 to April 2009, Mr Rake was also the Acting Chief Executive.

From 2000 to 2005, Mr Rake was a senior officer in the ACT Government, including Business Manager and Chief Financial Officer of ACT Forests during the period immediately before and after the January 2003 bushfires.

A strong community and stakeholder focus underpin Mr Rake’s corporate and financial experience. He is passionate about the importance of citizens being actively engaged in their community. Mr Rake currently serves as a voluntary board/council member of the National Institute of Accountants ACT Division, Pegasus Foundation (horse riding for the disabled) and Greening Australia Capital Region.

Members

Ms Kathryn Greiner AO was appointed as a part-time member for three years commencing 1 January 2007. She is a renowned communicator, with experience in various media. She hasa commitment to services to the community, having graduated in social work from the University of New South Wales (1968) and embarking on an extensive career in health and children’s services (1968–88), both in Australia and overseas. She was elected a City of Sydney councillor (1995–2004) and was an active contributor to the urban renewal and regeneration of Sydney, with a constant focus on the impact on residents.

She is Chairman of Australian Hearing, Chairman of Bio Tech Capital Ltd, a member of the Advisory Council of LEK Consulting and a council member at Bond University.

The Hon Neil Andrew AO was appointed as a part-time member for three years commencing 1 January 2007. Elected to the House of Representatives for the South Australian seat of Wakefield in 1983, Mr Andrew served as a member of the Federal Parliament until 2004.
He was appointed Government Whip in 1997 and in 1998 was elected Speaker of the House of Representatives. As a Presiding Officer of the Parliament he worked closely with the Authority on development proposals that affected the Parliamentary Zone.

Mr Andrew was born and lives in South Australia. With a life-long association with the irrigation industry, particularly irrigated horticulture and viticulture, he was also a member of the South Australian Advisory Board of Agriculture (1975–83) and was its chairman (1980–83). He was an Australian Nuffield Scholar to the United Kingdom in 1975 and had local government experience as a councillor in the Waikerie District Council for nine years.

Since retiring from Federal Parliament in 2004, Mr Andrew has completed arbitration and mediation qualifications and has chaired a review of the South Australian barley marketing legislation. He is Chairman of the Crawford Fund in Australia and is the South Australian Government liaison officer for the River Murray.

Mr Andrew was appointed an Officer of the Order of Australia in 2008 for service to the Parliament of Australia through the advancement of parliamentary administration and reform, and to the community in the areas of agricultural research, development and education.

On 6 June 2009, the Minister for Home Affairs, the Hon Brendan O’Connor MP, appointed Mr Peter Core as a part-time member for five years, commencing 18 June 2009. As at 30 June, Mr Core was Chief Executive Officer of the Australian Centre for International Agricultural Research.

Mr Core has a Master of Economics and a Bachelor of Rural Science from the University of New England. In 2008 he also graduated with a Graduate Diploma of Financial Planning. During his career he has worked for the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development, as the Deputy Secretary of the Federal Department of Primary Industries and then as Secretary of the Federal Departments of Industrial Relations and of Transport. Before joining the Australian Centre for International Agricultural Research, Mr Core was Managing Director of the Rural Industries Research and Development Corporation.

Members whose terms concluded in 2008–09

Mr John Murray was appointed as a part-time member of the Authority for three years commencing 8 May 2006. His appointment expired on 8 May 2009.

Mr Murray is the Managing Director of Ancra Consulting, which provides strategic advice on major development concepts. Mr Murray has 35 years experience in local government in New South Wales during which time he was responsible for a broad range of planning, environmental and administrative functions. He was appointed Director Development and Environment at Gosford Council on the New South Wales Central Coast in 1991 until his retirement in 2003.

Throughout his professional career he has developed and introduced many reforms to both the strategic and operational levels of local government. His work in the field of public policy relating to the built environment has been recognised by awards from the Australian Government as well as the Government of New South Wales, and the Royal Australian Planning Institute.

Mr Murray has been associated with both community and government organisations involved in formulating and delivering planning strategies for the future. He is a life member of Apex and lives at Avoca Beach, north of Sydney.

Mr Michael Ball AM, BA, ThL was appointed Chairman of the Authority for two years beginning 8 May 2006. This appointment was extended until 8 August 2008. Mr Ball did not seek reappointment. Mr Ball’s service was recognised in the 2007–08 annual report.

Ms Annabelle Pegrum AM was appointed Chief Executive of the Authority in June 1998 for a three-year term. She was reappointed for a second term commencing 2 June 2001 for five years. On 2 June 2006, she was appointed for a further three-year term. Ms Pegrum announced her resignation in May 2008 effective from 8 August 2008. Ms Pegrum’s service was recognised in the 2007–08 Annual Report.

Organisational structure

The Authority’s organisational structure (see Figure 1) is aligned with its statutory responsibilities and output reporting requirements (see Figure 2). The Authority structure includes the senior management positions of Chief Executive, Executive Director Corporate, Executive Director National Capital Plan and Executive Director National Capital Estate.

Figure 1: Organisational structure at 30 June 2009

The organisational structure provides for advisors and advisory panels and comprises three functional areas, namely:

• National Capital Plan
• National Capital Estate
• Corporate.

The Authority’s governance framework includes the Authority, management committee, executive briefing, audit committee, tender board, remuneration board, occupational health and safety committee and an employee consultative committee. Further information on the governance framework can be found in Chapter 6.

Performance reporting

The Portfolio Budget Statement for the Attorney-General’s portfolio provides information to senators and members on the Authority’s outcomes–outputs framework for 2008–09.

Figure 2: Outcomes and outputs reporting structure

Departmental performance

Table 2 shows the Authority’s income and expenses for 2008–09 and Table 3 shows its assets and liabilities.

Note: * Portfolio Budget Statements 2008–09 Attorney-General’s Portfolio p.330

Operating result

The Authority reported a Departmental operating surplus of $40,468. This is largely in line with the budgeted operating result.

Note: * Portfolio Budget Statements 2008–09 Attorney-General’s Portfolio p.331

Non-financial assets

The Authority receives funding from entities external to the government to facilitate construction of memorials. The funding and asset construction are treated as departmental activities. On completion of the memorial, the asset value is transferred to administered resulting in a reduction in overall departmental non-financial assets. A large value of memorial projects were transferred in 2008–09 than budgeted.

Liabilities

The variation against budget is due to a reduction in employee liabilities associated with lower than forecast interest rates, lower than forecast revenue received in advance for construction of memorials and the decision to discontinue asset leasing options.

Administered performance

Table 4 shows the Authority’s Administered revenue and expenses for 2008–09 and Table 5 its administered assets and liabilities.

Note: * Portfolio Budget Statements 2008–09 Attorney-General’s Portfolio p.333

Income

Memorials constructed from departmental funding are transferred to Commonwealth control as administered assets on completion. Assets acquired free of charge in this manner are recognised via contributions revenue in the administered accounts. The income variation results from transfer of a larger number of completed memorials than budgeted.

Expenses

The variation against budget is due to asset impairments and higher than forecast depreciation expenses.

Note: * Portfolio Budget Statements 2008–09 Attorney-General’s Portfolio p.334

Financial assets

The movement reflects a higher than forecast level of receivables at years end.

Non-financial assets

The variation against budget is due to the impact of asset revaluations.

Liabilities

The variation against budget is due to a higher than forecast level of revenue received in advance at years end.

Performance information

Outcome 1 – A National Capital, which symbolises Australia’s heritage, values and aspirations, is internationally recognised and worthy of pride by Australians

Output 1: Canberra and the Australian Capital Territory are planned and developed in accordance with their national significance

The Authority prepares, administers, reviews and proposes amendments to the National Capital Plan (when necessary):

To realise the promise of the city plan and the ideals of its founders

Output 2: Promotion and awareness of the significance of Canberra as the National Capital

The Authority fosters an awareness of Canberra as the National Capital of Australia.

Output 3: Advocacy, enhancement and management of the National Capital estate

The Authority develops and manages assets, including National Land, required for the special purposes of Canberra as the National Capital.

To develop the special character of the National Capital

2. National Capital Plan

Section 6 of the Act sets out the Authority’s functions. Sections 6(a) and 6(b) provide that two of the Authority’s functions are:

1. to prepare and administer a National Capital Plan
2. to keep the Plan under constant review and to propose amendments to it when necessary.

Output 1: Canberra and the Australian Capital Territory are planned and developed in accordance with their national significance

Overview

The Australian Government is responsible for Canberra’s role and functioning to ensure the city serves its national purpose and, as the guardian of the national interest in the capital, is accountable to all Australians for decisions about their National Capital.

The National Capital Plan secures the Australian Government’s continuing interest in ensuring that ‘Canberra and the Territory are planned and developed in accordance with their national significance’. This recognises the value of the unique purpose, setting, character and symbolism of Australia’s National Capital.

The capacity to prepare, administer and propose amendments to the National Capital Plan has been essential to the Australian Government’s abiding interest and commitment to the future development and enhancement of the National Capital.

National Capital Plan amendments

Section 23 of the Australian Capital Territory (Planning and Land Management) Act 1988 requires that amendments to the National Capital Plan be prepared in the same way as the Plan itself. The process includes public consultation, consultation with the ACT Planning and Land Authority, submission to the Minister for approval, and tabling in both Houses of Parliament. Upon Ministerial approval, the Attorney-General’s Department includes the amendment in the Federal Register of Legislative Instruments.

The Minister may refer Draft Amendments to the Joint Standing Committee on the National Capital and External Territories before approving them. Under separate legislation, Draft Amendments are also subject to regulation impact assessment, as administered by the Productivity Commission’s Office of Best Practice Regulation.

Amendments finalised in 2008–09

Draft Amendment 63 – Molonglo and North Weston: On 17 May 2006 the Authority agreed to prepare an amendment to the National Capital Plan to allow for urban development in the lower Molonglo Valley, in the area between Woden and Belconnen.

The Amendment was required to provide for continuation of urban development in the Territory while also ensuring adequate protection of the National Capital Open Space System. A new Broadacre Area land use policy was created to recognise existing uses and to balance the loss of Broadacre land in North Weston.

The Draft Amendment was available for public consultation between 1 September and
23 November 2007 and the Authority received 67 written submissions.

In light of submissions received, and on the basis of an independent environmental report commissioned to determine if the proposed urban boundary was justified in terms of biological and environmental conservation, the Authority agreed to a number of changes to the Draft Amendment as publicly exhibited. These included removing the Central Molonglo area from Urban Areas and adjusting the Urban Areas boundary on the eastern side of North Weston.

The former Minister approved Amendment 63 on 24 September 2008. The disallowance period ended on 27 November 2008 in the House of Representatives and 4 December 2008 in the Senate. No disallowance motion in respect of Amendment 63 was moved.

Current Draft Amendments

Draft Amendment 57 – Blocks 12 and 13 Section 9 Barton: On 13 February 2006 the Authority agreed to prepare a Draft Amendment to the National Capital Plan for Blocks 12 and 13 Section 9 Barton. The purpose of the Draft Amendment is to set out a framework of planning and urban design principles and policies to guide future mixed use development (including office, retail and residential).

The land is National Land managed by the Commonwealth Department of Finance and Deregulation. Block 13 forms part of that Department’s divestment program.

On 28 March 2009 Draft Amendment 57 was released for public consultation. A total of 46 submissions were received in response to the Draft Amendment. Key issues raised in submissions included building height, open space, car parking and public consultation. The Authority considered all submissions and has recommended a number of changes in regard to height limits, parking requirements and the need for future major works approvals to undergo public notification.

It is expected that Draft Amendment 57 will be submitted to the Minister for Home Affairs, the Hon Brendan O’Connor MP, for consideration in August 2009.

Draft Amendments yet to be released

Draft Amendment 70 – Fyshwick Sections 83, 85 and 87 and Appendix E of the National Capital Plan: On 9 October 2008 the Authority agreed to propose a Draft Amendment to Appendix E of the National Capital Plan to facilitate the National Water Initiative stormwater and reticulation projects in the Territory. On 27 February 2009 the Authority agreed to prepare a Draft Amendment to the National Capital Plan to amend the land use policy of part of Sections 83 and 85 and Section 87 Fyshwick from Broadacre to Urban Areas.

Although the two amendments are unrelated, they have been proposed as one to improve the efficiency of the National Capital Plan amendment process.

The National Water Initiative reflects the shared commitment to water reform by the Australian Government and the governments of New South Wales, Victoria, Queensland, South Australia, the Australian Capital Territory, and the Northern Territory. The most cost-effective options in the Territory include harvesting and reticulation of stormwater as a non-potable water supply and pumping of the harvested water into underground aquifers during wet periods (where technically feasible) and extraction from those aquifers during dry periods. The amendment to Appendix E of the National Capital Plan will facilitate the proposed National Water Initiative projects in the Territory.

The inclusion of part of Sections 83 and 85, and Section 87 Fyshwick into the Urban Areas will permit industrial land uses on these sites, and will ensure consistency of land uses between the National Capital Plan and the Territory Plan.

It is expected the Draft Amendment will be released for public consultation in September 2009.

Draft Amendments withdrawn

Draft Amendment 53 – Albert Hall Precinct: On 6 September 2005 the Authority agreed to propose a Draft Amendment to the National Capital Plan to expand the land use policy of the Albert Hall Precinct to allow for mixed use development on the car park and road reservation areas.

The Authority released the Draft Amendment for public comment on 22 February 2007 and held public information sessions on 5, 22 and 24 March 2007. Due to the level of interest in the Draft Amendment, the period for public comment was extended to 4 May 2007.

In total 169 submissions, plus a petition with 3,364 signatures, were received. The vast majority of respondents did not support the Draft Amendment either in full or in part.

Progress on Draft Amendment 53 halted early in 2008. The Authority agreed formally on 18 June 2009 to withdraw Draft Amendment 53 and has advised those people who took part in the public consultation process.

Development assessment

The Authority’s functions, as set out in section 6 of the Australian Capital Territory (Planning and Land Management) Act 1988, require the Authority to prepare and administer the National Capital Plan. The Act requires the Authority to keep the National Capital Plan under constant review and to propose amendments to it when necessary.

The National Capital Plan secures the Government’s continued interest in ensuring that ‘Canberra and the Territory are planned and developed in accordance with their national significance’.

The objectives of the National Capital Plan are achieved through the general principles and policies including the General Policy Plan – Metropolitan Canberra (Figure 1 of the Plan) and the General Policy Plan – Australian Capital Territory (Figure 2 of the Plan).

The National Capital Plan’s general policies apply to the whole of the Territory and demonstrate a logical and strategic approach to planning. The Plan acknowledges distribution of national functions throughout the city and the interdependence of the urban and non-urban parts of the Territory. It provides for critical services for both national and local purposes and safeguards the landscape character and quality of the setting. The Plan also secures the future of the National Capital by safeguarding the status, future use, amenity, infrastructure, quality and setting of the Seat of Government for all Australians.

The Plan sets out general planning policies and principles for overall development of the Territory. It also sets out detailed conditions of planning, design and development for Designated Areas, which are those areas that have the special characteristics of the National Capital. The Designated Areas include the main avenues and approach routes, the inner hills that provide the immediate setting to Canberra, the Central National Area embracing the Parliamentary Zone, Lake Burley Griffin and foreshores, the Australian National University, City Hill precinct, Constitution Avenue and Russell, parts of Forrest and Barton and the diplomatic estate. Map 1 shows the Designated Areas for which the Authority has responsibility for works approvals.

Section 12(1) of the Act states:

no works shall be performed in a Designated Area unless:

1. the proposal to perform the works has been submitted to the Authority together with such plans and specifications as are required by the Authority
2. the Authority has approved the works in writing
3. the works are in accordance with the Plan.

Outside the urban areas (in the National Capital Open Space System, the Broadacre and Rural Areas) the National Capital Plan sets out broad land use policies and specifies the range and nature of permitted uses.

The Plan also sets out special requirements for development of certain areas (not being in the Designated Areas) where considered desirable in the interests of the National Capital.

Regulating development

The Authority promotes, facilitates and regulates development to ensure it is in accordance with the National Capital Plan by:

• approving works in Designated Areas, as set out in the National Capital Plan
• master planning
• setting special requirements for defined areas of Canberra outside Designated Areas, where such requirements are considered to be in the interests of Canberra as the National Capital
• preparing detailed conditions of planning design and development
  for Designated Areas
• issuing leases and licences for land administered by the Authority.
• Development and works approval

Within Designated Areas, the Authority is responsible for the detailed conditions of planning, design and development and for approving any subdivisions of land, and for approving works (under section 12 of the Act). The scope of the works subject to such approval enables the Authority to influence qualities of planning, design and development that respect and enhance Canberra’s status and character as the National Capital.

‘Works’ is defined in section 4 of the Act to include:

1. the construction, alteration, extension or demolition of buildings or structures
2. landscaping
3. tree-felling
4. excavations

but excludes anything done inside buildings or structures.

Works approval granted by the Authority is a planning approval, not a building approval, and is granted only on the basis that works are in accordance with provisions of the National Capital Plan. It does not constitute any form of warranty as to the structural sufficiency of the proposed works or as to the safety of the performance of the works. It is the responsibility of applicants to ensure any approvals required under separate legislation are also obtained.

Table 10 illustrates the number of works approvals completed each year between 2000–01 and 2008–09 as well as the value of the works assessed each year (in millions).

Works approvals over $1 million

In 2008–09 the Authority approved 17 applications for works valued at more than $1 million (see Table 11), compared with in 23 in 2007–08.

Performance against service charter

The Authority undertakes to assess most works approvals and respond to written requests for advice within 15 working days. During 2008–09 the Authority approved 289 works approval applications – 265 (91.7%) were finalised within 15 working days.

Development Assessment Forum

The Authority has been a member of the Development Assessment Forum since 2007. The forum encourages harmonisation of Australian development assessment systems by promoting leading practice regulatory reform. This is directly relevant to the Authority’s role under section 12(1) of the Australian Capital Territory (Planning and Land Management) Act 1988 to approve works (development approvals) in writing and in accordance with the National Capital Plan.

In 2008–09 the Authority continued its participation in forum activities.

Development control plans

Development of some sites outside of the Designated Areas is subject to the special requirements of the National Capital Plan and must conform to development control plans approved by the Authority.

The Authority approved six development control plans in 2008–09. Two were for National Land sites and four were for Territory Land sites.

• National Land Sites
  • Belconnen Section 44 and 49 – an amendment to the existing Development Control Plan for the Cameron Offices site located within the Belconnen Town Centre
  • Greenway Block 2 Section 14 – an amendment to the existing Development Control Plan for the Tuggeranong Office Park site located within the Tuggeranong Town Centre.
• Territory Land Sites
  • Development of the suburb of Crace in Gunaghlin – for Blocks 292, 352, 499 and part of Block 588 adjacent to the Barton Highway, an approach route under the National Capital Plan
  • Forrest Section 18 – for Blocks 4, 5, 7 and 8 adjacent to Canberra Avenue, a main avenue under the National Capital Plan
  • Development of the Hume West Industrial Area – for part of Section 23 and Sections 25, 26 and 27 Hume adjacent to the Monaro Highway, an approach route under the National Capital Plan
  • Griffith Block 5 Section 18 adjacent to Canberra Avenue, a main avenue under the National Capital Plan.

Territory Plan variations

Part IV of the Australian Capital Territory (Planning and Land Management) Act 1988 provides for the ACT Legislative Assembly to establish a Territory planning authority responsible for preparing and administering a Territory Plan. The ACT Planning and Land Authority currently administers the Territory Plan.

Section 25(2) of the Act provides that the object of the Territory Plan:

is to ensure, in a manner not inconsistent with the National Capital Plan, the planning and development of the Territory to provide the people of the Territory with an attractive, safe and efficient environment in which to live and work and have their recreation.

The Authority considers draft Territory Plan variations to ensure their consistency with the National Capital Plan and its statutory object. During 2008–09, the Authority considered six draft Territory Plan variations. None were found inconsistent with the provisions of the National Capital Plan. Details of the draft variations are at Table 12.

Urban Design Guidelines

The National Capital Plan requires the Authority to prepare Urban Design Guidelines to give further guidance on the detailed planning and design framework for key sites within Designated Areas of the National Capital Plan. The Urban Design Guidelines foster excellence in urban design and architecture and establish the opportunity for innovation. In 2008–09, the Authority developed Urban Design Guidelines for the following key sites:

• Urban Design Guidelines for Car Park Structures: Block 8 Section 22 Barton (Completed)
• Urban Design Guidelines for part of Section 19 City (Completed)
• Urban Design Guidelines for part of Sections 19 and 63 City (Draft).

3. Exhibition and outreach

Section 6 of the Act provides for the National Capital Authority:

1. to foster an awareness of Canberra as the National Capital.

Output 2: Promotion and awareness of the significance of Canberra as the National Capital

Overview

The Australian Government is committed to a National Capital that embodies Australia’s heritage, aspirations, unity and values, and is worthy of pride for all Australians. The capital, as the seat of government, centre of national administration, location for national institutions and reflection of national life, should be such that all Australians can appreciate it.

The Authority is charged with developing an understanding and appreciation of the role of Canberra as the National Capital. The responsibility complements and informs the Authority’s other roles of planning, capital works and land management, and provides an excellent balance to the cultural programs of its national cultural institutions.

The Authority takes a strategic approach to fostering an awareness of the capital through research; by encouraging participation, appreciation and celebration in the National Capital; by providing information and education about the Capital; and by promoting the attributes of Canberra that are of national significance.

Key initiatives and achievements

Two key initiatives and achievements during 2008–09 were a temporary display on the centenary of the selection of Canberra as the site for the National Capital, and the Anzac Parade walking tour podcast.

A Capital Choice: The Selection of Canberra as the Site of our National Capital 1908–2008

On 13 October 2008, Senator Kate Lundy officially launched a temporary display in the National Capital Exhibition entitled, A Capital Choice: The Selection of Canberra as the Site of our National Capital 1908–2008. Through images and an interactive game, the display explores the decision to select Yass–Canberra as the site for the National Capital.

A Capital Choice has been well received by schools visiting the National Capital Exhibition and a teacher resource has been included on the Authority’s education portal. The display is also part of the National Capital Exhibition’s virtual tour, which gives all Australians an opportunity to learn about the first of the Canberra centenary anniversaries.

A Capital Choice will be on display at the National Capital Exhibition until August 2009 when it will be replaced by a temporary display celebrating the centenary of the survey of the National Capital site by Charles Scrivener.

Anzac Parade walking tour podcast

The Anzac Parade walking tour podcast, available as a download from the Authority’s website, allows all Australians to learn about the memorials which line the National Capital ’s major ceremonial way.

The walking tour podcast explores the symbolism and stories behind the memorials on Anzac Parade, including information provided by veterans involved in selected conflicts. The full tour takes approximately one hour and complements the Authority’s Anzac Parade Self Guided Walking Tour brochure.

The walking tour can be downloaded in full or visitors can create their own tour of memorials of personal interest by downloading information on individual memorials.

Launches

In 2008–09 the Authority conducted two launches:

• At a media launch on 24 July 2008 the Authority announced that due to the support of local sponsors the 2009 Canberra screening of Tropfest had been secured.
• On 13 October 2008, Senator Kate Lundy launched the temporary display A Capital Choice: The Selection of Canberra as the Site of our National Capital 1908–2008.

Outreach

The Authority’s program of reaching out to the community to foster an awareness of Canberra as the National Capital covers a broad spectrum of promotion and awareness strategies, projects and services.

National Capital Exhibition

The National Capital Exhibition tells the story of Canberra, Australia’s National Capital. It is located on Regatta Point, Commonwealth Park, with spectacular views of the Parliamentary Triangle and the Captain Cook Memorial Jet.

Through interactive displays, the National Capital Exhibition illustrates Canberra’s vital role as a symbol of Federation. It features the people, events, history and design, which contributed to the development of this unique, modern, fully-planned capital city.

A virtual tour of the National Capital Exhibition and self guided tours are available online to assist schools prepare for their visit.

The National Capital Exhibition is open from Monday to Friday 9 am to 5 pm, and at weekends from 10 am to 4 pm. It is also open on Australia Day and Canberra Day but is closed on Christmas Day and other public holidays. Admission is free.

School groups represent a large proportion of visitors to the National Capital Exhibition. An internal restructure of Authority staffing during the year enabled the creation of a dedicated ‘education officer’ position to focus on school visits. The education officer coordinates the scheduling and structure of school visits and ensures appropriate education support materials are available for students and teachers. The current displays in the National Capital Exhibition are ageing. Early planning is underway for major renewal in 2010–11. Feedback from visitors and stakeholders will guide much of the renewal.

In May 2009 staff-led guided tours were reintroduced to the National Capital Exhibition. Throughout the year exhibits have been updated, including the Canberra Sound and Light Show.

In 2008–09 visitor numbers were 218,443 consisting of:

• 57,424 school students, predominantly from interstate
• 36,936 international tour group visitors
• 4,417 domestic tour group visitors
• 119,639 free independent travellers.

In June 2009, visitors were surveyed at the conclusion of their visit. Of those surveyed 100 per cent agreed their visit to the National Capital Exhibition had increased their awareness of the special importance of Canberra as Australia’s National Capital.

Renewal of the National Capital Exhibition

In 2008–09 the Authority commenced a project to renew the National Capital Exhibition. Stage 1 of the project will deliver a master plan for the renewal, including a creative brief and major themes. The master plan for the National Capital Exhibition will be delivered in 2009.

Blundells Cottage

Built around 1860, Blundells Cottage pre-dates the National Capital. Originally part of the ‘Duntroon Estate’, the cottage was a home for farm workers and their families. The cottage is now a fascinating hands-on museum and a memorial to the pioneers of the Limestone Plains.

Blundells Cottage is open on Saturdays from 10 am to 3 pm, excluding public holidays. Entrance fees are $7 for adults, $5 for children and concessions, and $15 for families.

During 2008–09 Blundells Cottage attracted 980 visitors.

National Carillon

Located on Aspen Island in Lake Burley Griffin, the National Carillon was a gift of the British Government to the people of Australia to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the National Capital. Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II accepted the National Carillon on 26 April 1970.

The National Carillon building comprises three main levels. The first level, the George Howe Room – named for a long-serving carillonist – houses the main instrument called the clavier. The second floor, the bell chamber, houses the 55 static bronze bells which are played by the clavier, and on the third level is a function room named Chimes.

The Authority has facilitated a sponsorship with Colliers International and the Molonglo Group to support the National Carillon recital program in 2008–09 and 2009–10. This sponsorship allows for the continuation of National Carillon public programs, including Stillness and the Night and extra summer recitals, and the National Carillon Open Day.

Regular recitals could be heard on Sundays and Wednesdays throughout the year. From January to March extra recitals were also performed on Mondays and Fridays. Further recitals were also performed on Tuesday evenings during January and February as part of the Stillness and the Night program.

Special recitals were also performed for Christmas Eve, Valentine’s Day, Canberra Day,
World Aids Day, and in memory of the victims of the Victorian bushfires.

The open day in March 2009 provided families and other members of the public the opportunity to tour the National Carillon, including seeing the bells and meeting the carillonists.

Authority volunteers

The National Capital Authority Interpretive Volunteer program was established in August 2000 to complement the Authority’s awareness of Canberra as the National Capital. Since this time the program has been expanded to include the Horticulture Volunteer program.

Interpretive volunteers

Interpretive volunteers share their time, skills and knowledge, to develop their understanding and appreciation of Canberra as the National Capital which they pass on to the hundreds of thousands of visitors to the capital. At 30 June 2009 there were 19 active interpretative volunteers.

Volunteers continued to be rostered as interpretive guides at the National Capital Exhibition and at Blundells Cottage to assist school groups and other visitors to appreciate these facilities. Volunteers also provide tours of the National Carillon and informative walking tours of Anzac Parade, the Old Parliament House Gardens, and the southern shore of Lake Burley Griffin.

Horticulture volunteers

Horticulture volunteers undertake defined activities, under the Authority’s supervision, such as deadheading of roses and other flowering plants, and weeding and maintenance of garden beds in the Old Parliament House Gardens.

Since the horticulture volunteers began shifts in July 2005 the program has grown substantially. At 30 June 2009 there were 47 active horticulture volunteers.

The activities of the horticulture volunteers have made a tangible difference to the experience of visitors to the Old Parliament House Gardens.

In September 2008, the Authority recognised the horticulture volunteers for undertaking 3,000 shifts in the Old Parliament House Gardens.

Education kits

The Authority has developed four online education resource kits, which are available through the Authority’s education portal at http://www.education.nationalcapital.gov.au

Two of the kits – A Look into the Past, an online education resource for Blundells Cottage and The Story of our Nation’s Capital – are aimed at primary school students. The other two – The National Police Memorial education resource and Reflections of a Nation: The History and Design of our National Capital – are aimed at lower to upper high school students. Reflections of a Nation has been updated with new activities and curriculum links to meet the needs of teachers and their students.

Each resource informs students about aspects of Canberra’s history and the role of the National Capital through interactive activities linked to Australian state curriculum. In 2008–09, 8,453 people accessed the education portal and the Authority’s online outreach tools.

In 2008–09 the Authority’s education portal was updated to include education materials linked to A Capital Choice: The Selection of Canberra as the Site of our National Capital 1908–2008 temporary display.

Centenary of Canberra

Both the Australian Government and ACT Government have committed to planning the 2013 celebration of the centenary of Canberra through an inter-governmental agreement signed on 12 December 2008.

An inter-governmental working group with the ACT Government is developing themes and a program of joint activities for the centenary. The Attorney-General’s Department convened an inter-departmental committee in March 2009 to develop a program of Commonwealth events to mark the centenary that will be considered later this year.

Decisions about the Commonwealth’s contributions to the centenary will be made through the Government’s normal processes.

Library

The Authority’s library is located at the Royal Australian Institute of Architects ACT Chapter building, 2A Mugga Way, Red Hill ACT 2603.

The library holds a collection of specialist materials covering the fields of architecture, landscape architecture, urban development, environmental planning, local history and cultural awareness, and serves as a rich resource for study of the planning and development of the National Capital.

The library also holds reports from the Authority, the National Capital Development Commission and its predecessors, as well as a photographic collection containing over 25,000 images in print, slide and transparency formats.

The library is open by appointment only one day each month.

4. National Capital Estate

Section 6 of the Act provides for the National Capital Authority:

1. with the Minister’s approval, on behalf of the Commonwealth, to manage National Land designated in writing by the Minister as land required for the special purposes of Canberra as the National Capital.

Output 3: Advocacy, enhancement and management of the National Capital estate

Overview

The Australian Government has a direct interest in developing and maintaining the National Capital as an asset in which all Australians have a major investment.

On behalf of the Australian Government, the Authority develops, manages and maintains assets valued at more than $700 million at 30 June 2009.

Most assets are maintained under competitively tendered contracts and represent some of the capital’s most nationally and culturally significant landscapes and attractions. These assets include:

• the Parliamentary Zone (excluding the Parliamentary Precincts)
• Anzac Parade (and its memorials)
• Lake Burley Griffin (and Scrivener Dam)
• Commonwealth and Kings Parks, including Aspen Island and the National Carillon
• Acton Peninsula
• Yarramundi Reach
• Stirling Ridge
• Diplomatic estates (Yarralumla, Deakin and O’Malley).

Associated assets include the Captain Cook Memorial Jet, fountains, national monuments, public artworks, large areas of landscape infrastructure (paths, lighting, signage) and civil infrastructure (roads, bridges, and street lighting).

Lake Burley Griffin, the centrepiece of the Griffin Plan for Canberra, is a significant and highly valued national asset.

The diversity of these assets reflects the breadth of the Australian Government’s interests in the National Capital and provides the setting for ceremonies, activities and events that Australians expect to occur in their capital. In managing these assets the Authority seeks to ensure they are created, maintained and, if necessary, replaced to enhance and protect the unique qualities of the capital, and to support activities and events that foster an awareness of Canberra as the National Capital.

Condition assessments are undertaken regularly to help manage and maintain the assets. These assessments provide information for maintenance and/or replacement of key components or assets, as needed.

Most of the National Land the Authority manages is in the public domain and located in the Central National Area of Canberra (see Map 2). The land use policies in the National Capital Plan for these areas are primarily National Capital Use, Open Space or Diplomatic Missions.

Key initiatives and achievements

Key initiatives and achievements in 2008–09 in managing National Land designated as land required for the special purposes of Canberra as the National Capital were:

• implementing a new asset management system
• upgrading the intersection at Anzac Parade and Constitution Avenue
• replacing asphalt to bridge abutments at Capital Circle and Adelaide Avenue
• partnering with the Friends of the Grasslands.

New asset management system

A new asset management system – the TechnologyOne Works and Asset System – was developed and implemented by 30 June 2009. The implementation involved data transfer from a number of previous Authority asset systems.

TechnologyOne is the central depository for all the Authority’s asset data; it streamlines business processes and ensures ready access to asset information. The system facilitates accurate recording of the location of assets and helps forecast and implement proactive and reactive maintenance. It has a direct interface with other key business systems, automates some workflows and improves internal controls for contract management.

Relevant staff were trained in the system’s features and application.

Anzac Parade and Constitution Avenue intersection upgrade

Due to the wear and tear associated with high traffic at the intersection of Anzac Parade and Constitution Avenue, in October 2008 Patches Asphalt was contracted to replace the asphalt pavement to a depth of 90 millimetres.

Capital Circle bridge abutments

Restoration and maintenance was carried out on the asphalt on the bridge abutments at Capital Circle and Adelaide Avenue. The asphalt pavement was milled and filled to a depth of 50 millimetres during June 2009.

Partnership with Friends of the Grasslands

During 2008–09, the Authority secured an ongoing partnership with the Friends of the Grasslands.

The partnership focused on reinvigorating two ecologically significant grassy ecosystems around Lake Burley Griffin – the natural temperate grassland at Yarramundi Reach and the grassy yellow box woodland at Stirling Ridge.

The first project stemming from this partnership was held in April 2009 when volunteers identified and removed woody and grassy weeds from discrete portions of Yarramundi Reach. Targeted weeding in these delicate ecosystems is a fine-scale task that is not possible with conventional machinery.

Weeds targeted included the invasive African Lovegrass, Prickly Lettuce, Verbascum, Chilean Needle Grass, St John’s Wort, Blackberry and Cootamundra Wattle.

The Authority provided tools and consumables to the Friends of the Grasslands to undertake the work.

Developing and managing national assets

The Authority manages and maintains National Land and some of the nation’s most significant cultural assets. These assets are managed as a national investment for their cultural, heritage and environmental values and provide the setting for ceremonies, activities and events that occur in the National Capital.

In managing assets in the National Capital, the Authority aims to ensure maintenance and other practices are consistent with the design intent and support the objectives of the National Capital Plan.

Open space maintenance contract

The open space maintenance contract for the Parliamentary Executive Campus, the Humanities and Science Campus, Parkes Place and Commonwealth and Kings Parks was extended to 3 September 2009. The Authority will conduct a public tender for a new contract
to maintain the Open Space areas in2009–10.

Memorials, artworks and fountains

Management of national memorials, fountains and artworks involves care of key features within landscape areas of the National Capital. These include the memorials on Anzac Parade, King George V Memorial, the Federation Centenary Fountains, Treasury Fountain, memorials and artworks in Commonwealth and Kings Parks and the artworks in Reconciliation Place. In all, the Authority manages and maintains more than 100 commemorative elements throughout the city.

The Authority has set maintenance standards and best practice benchmarks for managing and maintaining assets, taking into account their artistic and heritage values. The Authority employs three experienced officers dedicated to providing these specialised services.

Maintaining buildings and infrastructure on National Land

Building assets are maintained under a contract awarded to Hirotec Maintenance Pty Ltd in 2003. In March 2009 the Authority went to public tender for a new contract for buildings and infrastructure maintenance on National Land. The preferred tenderer will be appointed in
July 2009.

Among the key building assets the Authority manages are the National Capital Exhibition building, Commonwealth Place, the National Carillon, and Blundells Cottage, as well as leased premises, such as the Lobby Restaurant, and buildings at Acton Peninsula and Commonwealth Park. Minor facilities, such as public toilets, bus shelters and electrical switchboards, are also maintained under this contract.

The scope of work encompasses management, coordination and delivery of works and services, including cleaning, preventative and corrective maintenance, and minor capital works. In addition, the contract delivers condition assessments, maintenance programs,
and cost plans.

Reinstatement of paving and landscaping – Commonwealth Place

Following damage caused by a diesel spill during Cirque du Soleil, the Authority reinstated the damaged areas and restored functionality and public access. Work entailed excavation and disposal of contaminated materials in compliance with the relevant environmental legislation and standards. Once the soil and surrounding areas were tested to ensure all contamination had been removed, improved drainage was installed and the pavers were reinstated.

The full cost of remediation was met by Cirque du Soleil.

International flag supply

The supply and display of international flags at Commonwealth Place is the Authority’s responsibility. The flags have a life span of approximately three years before they need to be replaced. New flags are also added as diplomatic missions are established in the National Capital. The Authority has developed the procurement documentation for supply of new sets of flags, which is due to be advertised on the open market in early 2009–10.

Lake Burley Griffin management

Lake Burley Griffin is the centrepiece for the setting of the National Capital. The lake covers an area of 664 hectares with a maximum depth of 17.6 metres near Scrivener Dam and an average depth of some 4 metres.

Administration of the lake is governed by the Lakes Ordinance 1976 (as applied by the National Land Ordinance 1989). The Authority issues permits for powerboats, moorings, major events, and authorisations for abstraction of water for irrigation, and various other matters associated with use of the lake.

Lake maintenance program

Lake Burley Griffin facilities include the water body, jetties, beaches and other lake infrastructures. The Authority manages a comprehensive maintenance works program to maintain and enhance the lake and facilities in order to provide a clean, safe and attractive environment in a cost effective manner.

Ecoway (Aust) Pty Ltd manages the maintenance works program under an external three-year contract; the contract price is $666,030 (including GST).

Environmental condition

The Authority manages a comprehensive water quality program to understand and manage the environmental status of the lake. The program also allows the Authority to advise on the aesthetic and health characteristics of the water to recreational users following periods of floods, drought, and elevated bacterial levels and algal bloom conditions.

The environmental state of the lake is monitored through physical, chemical, and biological testing. The results are analysed to identify any change and, if required, appropriate management responses are implemented.

The Authority provided the public with weekly water quality information during the summer of 2008–09 through its website and, when circumstances warranted, additional reports were posted on the site.

During the year, the overall bacterial quality of the lake was generally good and did not affect organised lake events. The swimming beaches were, however, occasionally subjected to elevated bacterial levels that marginally exceeded guideline values. These events were managed with appropriate signage and other control measures, as established in the Lake Burley Griffin Water Quality Management Plan.

From February 2009 the proliferation of algal blooms saw both partial to full closures of the lake. The alerts were managed with shore-based signage and media announcements. The blue-green algae counts fell within safe levels towards the end of June 2009 allowing all areas of the lake to be opened. The Authority is in the process of commissioning the Central Queensland University to undertake an investigative study to evaluate causal factors and potential solutions. The findings of the study will help reduce the occurrence and impact of algal blooms and will also inform the Lake Management Strategy.

Lake levels were regularly monitored and reported on. The lowest lake level recorded was on 31 March 2009 at approximately 280 millimetres below the normal lake level (555.93 metres AHD [Australian Height Datum]). The highest lake level was recorded on 1 March 2009 at
14 millimetres above the normal lake level.

Maintenance contract – Captain Cook Memorial Jet

Ecowise Services provided maintenance and miscellaneous electrical services for the Captain Cook Memorial Jet under a three-year contract. The contract was let in July 2006 and is to be extended for a further two years. In March 2009, the electronic controls for the operation of the valve in the jet failed. Since then the valve has been changed, pipes modified and additional rigging equipment installed so as to ensure safer and more efficient maintenance works into the future. High blue-green algae levels prevented commissioning of the Jet in late May. The Jet is now fully operational.

Water quality monitoring contract

Ecowise Environmental Pty Ltd provides management of the water quality program under a three-year contract which commenced in September 2006.

Water abstraction

The Authority has established an abstraction plan to address matters affecting abstraction of water from Lake Burley Griffin. Such abstraction is authorised through subsection 12(1) of the Lakes Ordinance 1976.

Currently, abstraction authorisations are issued to five abstractors: Canberra Urban Parks and Places, Yarralumla Nursery, Government House, National Capital Authority and Royal Canberra Golf Club. The Royal Botanical Gardens have completed authorisations and are expected to be abstracting water from the lake in late 2009.

The Authority monitors abstraction of water twice a year. The fees are set to cover administrative costs and were $0.20 per kilolitre in 2008–09 and have been increased to $0.25 per kilolitre for 2009–10.

Abstraction of water by Royal Canberra Golf Club is subject to Crown lease conditions that provide for taking of water at no cost. The Authority is continuing negotiations with the Club with a view to agreeing on an appropriate quantum of water for abstraction, within the context of the Club’s Crown lease.

The Authority initiated formation of a working group, comprising various Australian Government agencies and the ACT Government, to develop a framework for applying the Water Act 2007 to the consumptive abstraction of water by Commonwealth agencies within the Territory. The working group worked productively and cooperatively to develop an effective regulatory environment for water abstraction and has put a recommended position to the Government. A decision is expected in the first half of 2009–10.

Open space irrigation

The Authority manages irrigation of grass and trees on National Land made up of open space vistas, parks and public use areas with high national significance and heritage values.

The Authority has converted a number of irrigated open space areas, fountains and memorial water features on National Land to draw lake water.

The Authority has achieved the 35 per cent reduction in potable water usage required by staged water restrictions on those irrigated open spaces, fountains and water features on National Land that still rely on potable water, through efficient management of its
irrigation systems.

Scrivener Dam management

Lake Burley Griffin was formed by construction of Scrivener Dam in 1964. The Authority manages maintenance and operation of the dam through three contracts for facility management, safety and surveillance, and provision of hydrometric data.

SunWater Limited manages the facility management contract that covers routine operation and maintenance of the dam and flood forecasting services. Ecowise Environmental Pty Ltd manages the contract for provision of hydrometric data that covers rainfall and flow measurements data services for flood management activities.

ActewAGL manages the safety and surveillance contract that provides for independent routine inspections to gauge the condition and performance of the dam, and carry out specific requirements of the safety and management surveillance program, as set out in the Australian National Committee on Large Dams Guidelines. In June 2009, ActewAGL’s annual surveillance report concluded that the overall condition of Scrivener Dam was satisfactory, operation of the dam was satisfactory and should be continued at this high level, and the maintenance carried out by the dam operators was commendable.

All three contracts expire on 30 June 2010.

Operational maintenance

During the year both the downstream conduits and the emergency generator were replaced at a combined cost of $169,051 (including GST).

Clearing of woody weeds

During the year, the Authority cleared and chipped woody weeds for approximately 200 metres downstream of the spillway. This work was done in conjunction with ACT Parks Conservation and Lands that extended work further downstream as part of its long-term willow removal program. Clearing was achieved with a digger that had a specialised attachment for sawing and applying growth retardant to cut willows at a cost of $44,660 (including GST). The woody weeds were chipped and removed at a cost of $33,000 (including GST). ACT Parks Conservation and Lands is to rehabilitate the site.

Floating gate

During the year, the Authority overhauled the floating gate to extend its expected working life. Both the internal and external areas of the gate have been treated for rust removal and prevention. The ladder and lanyards were replaced to meet current occupational health and safety requirements. All works on the gate were completed for a total cost of $40,225 (including GST).

Administration of National Land

In administering National Land, the Authority negotiates and administers leases and licences for appropriate activities on National Land and on Lake Burley Griffin; negotiates with key stakeholders to formulate and agree mutual roles and responsibilities to ensure the vision for the Parliamentary Zone as ‘the place of the people’ is achieved for the benefit of all Australians; and administers diplomatic leases.

Leases and licences

In 2008–09 the Authority finalised the following lease and licence matters:

• Bovis Lend Lease Pty Ltd: The licence agreement with Bovis Lend Lease Pty Ltd over land for a temporary site establishment compound to service construction of a new office building on Block 3 Section 2 Barton expired in June 2009.
• Commonwealth Park Caretaker’s Cottage: The Authority entered into a licence agreement with the ACT Government for use of the Cottage for planning, developing and promoting the Canberra International Arboretum and Gardens and the National Bonsai Collection.
• Lobby Restaurant and Pork Barrel Cafe: The Authority entered into a variation and deed of assignment from B Gibbs Pty Ltd to The Lobby Pty Ltd for these premises.
• Commonwealth Place East Kiosk: The Authority negotiated a licence agreement with M&K Biscotti to operate a coffee and gelato bar at the East Kiosk, which opened in September 2008.
• A request for expressions of interest to operate commercial services or activities at various premises at Commonwealth Place was issued in October 2008 and the following arrangements have been finalised:
  • Commonwealth Place West Kiosk: Licence negotiations have commenced with a preferred respondent to operate commercial services in the West Kiosk.
  • Commonwealth Place East: The space was licensed to a consortium led by the University of Canberra for the purposes of operating the Gallery of Australian Design.
  • Commonwealth Place West: The Authority received no interest from prospective licensees to operate services from this space.

The Authority managed a range of boat hire and licence agreements for premises located at Commonwealth Place, National Capital Exhibition, Commonwealth Park, Acton Peninsula, and the Lobby Restaurant. The Authority continued to conduct regular meetings with commercial tenants and to commission independent reviews of the fair market licence fees for the various premises.

Diplomatic leases

The Authority administers diplomatic leases under the Leases (Special Purposes) Ordinance 1925. Management of these estates includes sale and issue of Crown leases, rent appraisal and collection, lease variations and compliance. The Authority coordinates these activities with foreign missions and the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade.

At 30 June 2009, 96 foreign missions were represented in the National Capital. Diplomatic estates are located in Yarralumla, Deakin and O’Malley.

Seventy-one Crown leases have been issued to foreign missions over sites on which chancery and consulate facilities and head-of-mission residences have been constructed or are proposed.

A review of diplomatic leasing commenced in May 2008 with an inter-agency committee established to inform future government policy decisions regarding diplomatic leasing. While this review is underway no further diplomatic leases can be entered into without ministerial approval.

Approval was given to finalise the Crown lease negotiations with the Government of the Russian Federation and the Government of Ukraine for Crown leases over land in Yarralumla.

Other actions in the year included granting approval for works at the:

• Canadian High Commission
• Pakistan High Commission
• British High Commission
• Botswana High Commission
• Embassy of the Democratic Republic of Timor-Leste.

Construction of the Botswana High Commission was completed in May 2009 and the consulate was opened on 15 June 2009.

Where a Crown lease for a diplomatic site is subject to payment of annual land rent, rent reviews are undertaken every 20 years in accordance with the lease agreement and the ordinance. Three reviews were undertaken during 2008–09.

To accommodate future requirements the Authority commenced an investigation into the supply of additional sites for diplomatic use.

Review of diplomatic leasing arrangements

The Australian National Audit Office’s Performance Audit Report No. 33 2007–08 included a hypothetical analysis of the Authority’s administration of leases over diplomatic land in Canberra and stated that there is no extant government policy to guide the Authority in its administration of diplomatic leases. Recommendation 5 was that the Authority, in consultation with the Department of Finance and Deregulation and the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade develop options for consideration by government in relation to diplomatic leases that balance both revenue and foreign policy considerations.

The Authority convened an inter-agency committee comprising representatives of the Department of Finance and Deregulation, the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, the Attorney-General’s Department and the Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet. The inter-agency committee developed a draft options paper which was sent to the Australian National Audit Office for comment. Following receipt of supporting comments from the Auditor-General, the committee is finalising its report for government consideration.

International relationships

Flag raisings were held at Commonwealth Place for the Royal Belgian Embassy, the Embassy of the Kingdom of Tonga and the Embassy of the Czech Republic to commemorate their national days.

Capitals Alliance

The Capitals Alliance, formed in 2001 between Ottawa, Washington DC, Brasilia and Canberra, has conducted rotating meetings providing the opportunity to create linkages and encourage the sharing of visions and ideas for National Capitals in the twenty-first century.

The Capitals Alliance meets approximately every 18 months with the last meeting, combined with the second Capitals Alliance conference, hosted by Washington during September 2008 on the theme ‘Greening the World’s Capital Cities’. The Authority sent two staff members at a total expense of $14,477 (including GST).

Capitals Alliance members maintained a regular exchange of information and convened regular teleconference meetings focusing on membership growth, resulting in agreement to form a management committee. The Capitals Alliance formally offered membership of the Capitals Alliance Management Committee to the Abu Dhabi Urban Planning Council. Further exchange was centred on preparation for Brasilia hosting the 2010 Capitals Alliance Conference on the theme ‘Transportation and Urban Mobility’. During 2008–09, the Capitals Alliance received a request for planning advice from Tshwane (South Africa).

Visiting delegations

The Authority provides information and detailed overviews of the National Capital for visiting dignitaries, officials and international students. Presentations by Authority staff primarily address the planning and development of National Capital cities. Delegations from the following countries visited the National Capital in 2008–09 (see Table 13).

Table 13: International delegations visiting Canberra, 2008–09

Showcase Canberra

A number of missions participated in the Showcase Canberra pilot program by promoting their culture, trade and tourism opportunities at the Showcase Gallery in Commonwealth Place.

During 2008–09, the Embassy of the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela, the Embassy of Peru and the Embassy of Mexico presented exhibitions at the Showcase Gallery.

In August 2008, as part of the Vivid National Photography Festival, the Australian Commercial and Media Photographers presented a decade of showcasing Australia’s best photography in the gallery.

The Showcase Canberra program ceased in October 2008.

Venue management

The Authority encourages, approves and regulates events and temporary traders on National Land managed by the Authority including Lake Burley Griffin.

Events on National Land

The Authority helps event organisers by advising on the availability and suitability of venues and by providing access to power, water, public toilets, car parking and other services.

In 2008–09 the Authority provided permits or letters of confirmation for 878 events and activities, including weddings, protests, launches, sporting activities and commercial filming.

Significant events held on public National Land during 2008–09 included:

• Anzac Day Commemorative Celebrations (Anzac Parade)
• Australia Day Celebrations (Lake Burley Griffin and Commonwealth Park)
• Australia Day Live (Parliamentary Zone)
• Carols by Candlelight (Commonwealth Park)
• Cirque du Soleil (Commonwealth Place)
• Celebrate in the Park (Commonwealth Park)
• Floriade 2008 (Commonwealth Park)
• Foreshore Summer Music Festival (Commonwealth Place)
• National Autumn Balloon Festival (Parliamentary Zone)
• Skyfire (Lake Burley Griffin and surrounds)
• The Million Paws Walk (Commonwealth Park)
• Tropfest Short Film Festival (Commonwealth Park).

Temporary traders on National Land

Two permits were in operation for temporary traders to conduct concession services on National Land during 2008–09. Temporary traders provided services during events conducted on National Land.

Lake Users Group

The Lake Users Group comprises key users of Lake Burley Griffin, including sporting bodies, regulatory bodies and community groups. The group was formed in 2004 so that key users could liaise routinely with the Authority on issues relating to Lake Burley Griffin. The group meets quarterly and is chaired by Mr Tony Blunn AO.

5. National Capital Works

Section 6 of the Act provides for the National Capital Authority:

1. on behalf of the Commonwealth, to commission works to be carried out in Designated Areas in accordance with the Plan where neither a Department of State of the Commonwealth nor any Commonwealth authority has the responsibility to commission those works
2. to recommend to the Minister the carrying out of works that it considers desirable to maintain or enhance the character of the National Capital.

Output 3: Asset and land management and capital enhancement services

Overview

The public places at the centre of the National Capital provide the setting for the Parliament and national institutions. These places are used for the ceremonial and community events that reflect Australia’s history, spirit, culture and aspirations.

The Authority’s statutory functions give it the capacity to ensure national assets continue to be created and maintained, are of an appropriate standard, meet the expectations of users, and support an appreciation and understanding of the role of the National Capital.

On National Land the Authority manages development and renewal projects for the special purposes of the National Capital. These works include maintenance (to address safety and public amenity), works to enhance or maintain prior Australian Government investment in national assets (refurbishment of monuments and fountains), core infrastructure and services (roads, parking, pathways and lighting) and development of the landscape setting for new building sites, public parks and places, commemoration and celebration.

The Authority’s capacity to advocate and initiate works has been essential to the continued development and enhancement of the National Capital for all Australians. The Authority’s commissioning of works extends the rich history of Australian design and construction leadership in the National Capital.

Completed works

Key initiatives and achievements in 2008–09 include completion of:

• Kings Avenue–Parkes Way overpass – preparatory works; supply gas main relocation
• Anzac Parade road replacement – Stage 1
• Reconciliation Place – pavement artwork (Wati Jarra Jukurrpa)
• RG Menzies Walk reconstruction Stage 1 – Citizenship Place
• Humanities and Science Campus – road works
• Australian Service Nurses National Memorial – glass and paving replacement
• Kemal Attaturk Memorial – interpretative plaque replacement
• Bert Flugelman Earthwork – plaque and plinth replacement
• Australian Vietnam Forces National Memorial – returned soldier plaque
• Commonwealth Place East Kiosk – fitout.

Kings Avenue–Parkes Way overpass – preparatory works

The bridging of Kings Avenue over Parkes Way will remove one of the worst traffic bottlenecks in the Territory. Parkes Way will be lowered and a new bridge will carry Kings Avenue traffic over Parkes Way through to the Defence Headquarters at Russell. This work will also reinforce Kings Avenue as one side of Griffin’s National Triangle. The existing roundabout has the highest number of traffic accidents of any Canberra intersection.

The project was reviewed by the Joint Standing Committee on Public Works in August 2008 and passed in the House of Representatives on 4 September 2008.

Following evaluation of submissions arising from a nationally advertised expression of interest process, tenders for construction head contractor services closed on 26 May 2009.

Preparatory tree removal works and relocation of a 350-millimetre and 150-millimetre diameter steel gas mains, in the low load summer period, were completed in March 2009.

The cost of the preparatory construction works was $890,000 (including GST).

Anzac Parade road replacement – Stage 1

Construction of Anzac Parade was originally completed in 1965. Anzac Parade is a focus of national commemorative activities and performs a significant metropolitan traffic function.

Due to signs of accelerating deterioration in the road’s condition the Authority commenced a full depth pavement reconstruction. The reconstruction is occurring in three stages over three consecutive years. Construction has been scheduled to occur between November and April each year to ensure no disruption to Remembrance Day and Anzac Day ceremonial events.

Stage 1 of the reconstruction of the eastern carriageway between 70 metres north of Constitution Avenue through to Fairbairn Avenue was completed on 15 April 2009. Detailed traffic management and staging was developed in consultation with the ACT Government to minimise the impact on motorists and the general public. A comprehensive communication strategy was implemented to inform the community of the works.

The cost of the Stage 1 works was $2,380,000 (including GST).

Reconciliation Place – pavement artwork (Wati Jarra Jukurrpa)

On 24 November 2008 the Wati Jarra Jukurrpa pavement artwork was unveiled by the Minister for Families, Housing, Community Services and Indigenous Affairs, the Hon Jenny Macklin MP.

The Authority developed a design for the pavement artwork in consultation with the artist Paddy Stewart Japaljarri of the Warlukurlangu Artists Aboriginal Association and the Department of Families, Housing, Community Services and Indigenous Affairs.

The 39-metre long by 7-metre wide artwork is based on Paddy Stewart Japaljarri’s traditional Indigenous painting, Wati Jarra (Two Men Dreaming). Paddy Stewart’s design was chosen for its strong linear character and distinct visual elements that were suitable for translating into a pavement design in Reconciliation Place’s eastern promenade. The references to central Australian landscapes and traditional Indigenous art making also strongly complement existing artworks immediately adjacent.

The cost of the pavement artwork was $356,188 (including GST).

RG Menzies Walk reconstruction Stage 1 – Citizenship Place

Citizenship Place is located in Commonwealth Park, between Nerang Pool and Regatta Point. The place includes a sitting wall on a gravel beach with the citizenship affirmation inscribed in brass lettering and a sign showing the timeline of Australian citizenship.

The project was proposed by the former Australia Day in the National Capital Committee to ‘mark the place’ of Australia Day citizenship ceremonies held since 1986 and to honour the sixtieth anniversary of Australian citizenship.

The project was designed by Oxigen Pty Ltd and was delivered by project managers, Manteena Pty Ltd, as part of the RG Menzies Walk Reconstruction project.

The Governor-General opened Citizenship Place on Australia Day 2009.

The cost of the construction works, including a section of the RG Menzies Walk, was $450,000 (including GST).

Humanities and Science Campus Square – Road Works

As part of Stage 1 of the Humanities and Science Campus project the signalisation of the intersection of Kind Edward Terrace and Parkes Place West was completed and operational in February 2009. The Mall Road West bus loop road has been completed and provides parking for 16 coaches adjacent to Questacon.

Australian Service Nurses National Memorial – Glass and paving replacement

On 17 March 2008, a custom-made glass panel spontaneously shattered at the Australian Service Nurses National Memorial. The panel incorporated artwork that forms part of the memorial’s curving commemorative walls. The Authority undertook a structural audit of the memorial to determine the cause of the breakage and determined that the glass panel could be replaced. Remedial paving works were performed in conjunction with the glass replacement. The memorial was reopened to the public on 27 October 2008.

The cost of these works was $109,223 (including GST).

Kemal Attaturk Memorial – Iinterpretive plaque replacement

The Authority installed a replacement cast aluminium interpretive plaque at the Kemal Attaturk Memorial to acknowledge the substantive additions made to the memorial in 2007. The plaque was prepared in consultation with the Department of Veterans’ Affairs and the Turkish Embassy. It was unveiled on 9 February 2009 by His Excellency Mr Murat N Ersavcı, Ambassador of the Republic of Turkey to Australia in the presence of the Minister for Veterans’ Affairs, The Hon Alan Griffin MP.

The cost of installing the plaque was $1,806 (including GST).

Bert Flugelman Earthwork – Plaque and plinth replacement

The Authority replaced the plaque and plinth acknowledging the Bert Flugelman Earthwork, an artwork that was buried in 1975 near the Nerang Pool, in Commonwealth Park. The plaque and plinth had become damaged and were in need of replacement. The new more robust installation was designed in consultation with Bert Flugelman and was completed on 16 April 2009.

The cost of installing the plaque was $3,377 (including GST).

Australian Vietnam Forces National Memorial – Returned soldier plaque

The Australian Vietnam Forces National Memorial incorporates a suite of bench seats that acknowledge Australian soldiers who were, or still are, recorded as missing in action during the Vietnam War. The Authority installed an additional honed granite plaque to commemorate the return to Australia of Lance Corporal John Francis Gillespie. The plaque was prepared in consultation with the Department of Veterans’ Affairs and the Gillespie family. It was unveiled on 18 August 2008 by the Prime Minister, the Hon Kevin Rudd MP, in the presence of relatives of Lance Corporal Gillespie.

The cost of installing the plaque was $1,846 (including GST) and was funded by the Department of Veterans’ Affairs.

Parliamentary Zone East Kiosk – fitout

The Parliamentary Zone is home to Australia’s premier national institutions. It experienced increasingly high levels of tourist and event visitation throughout the year. To enhance public amenity the Authority constructed two kiosks, one on either side of Commonwealth Place on the lake foreshore. Completed in February 2008, each facility includes two accessible unisex public toilets and space for the operation of to a small business. Following an expression of interest process the East Kiosk was licensed to a coffee and gelato business.

In September 2008 the fitout of the kiosk was completed to coincide with the commencement of Floriade.

The fitout cost totalled $71,384 (including GST).

Continuing Works

Projects under staged construction, or in design or documentation stage during 2008–09 include:

• Kings Avenue–Parkes Way overpass – Stage 2 and Stage 3
• Anzac Parade road replacement – Stage 2
• Humanities and Science Campus Square
• Arts and Civic Campus
• RG Menzies Walk reconstruction
• Canberra Central Parklands master plan

Kings Avenue–Parkes Way overpass – Stage 2 and Stage 3

Construction Stage 2 and Stage 3 for bridging Kings Avenue over Parkes Way, at the existing Russell roundabout, will commence in 2009–10. The staged works include:

• Stage 2 – Preparatory works: high voltage mains relocation
• Stage 3 – Bridge, road and landscape works.

Anzac Parade road replacement – Stage 2

Documentation of Anzac Parade road replacement Stage 2 commenced in June 2009; construction is scheduled to commence in November 2009.

Stage 3 works are scheduled to commence documentation in 2010.

Humanities and Science Campus Square

The Parliamentary Zone Review Outcomes 2000 defined campuses as ‘organising elements around the structure of the main land axis and minor cross axes’. The Parliamentary Zone Master Plan (Amendment T.6 of the National Capital Plan) requires that a campus development plan guide development of each campus.

The Humanities and Science Campus Square creates a unified address for the National Library of Australia and Questacon, separates coaches from pedestrians and establishes a framework for potential building expansion. Children are some of the many users of this area and road safety and access in the campus is of central importance. Prior to construction commencing, pedestrians had to cross busy roads to approach Questacon and the National Library of Australia. The project, when completed, will create a people-friendly public place, a safer environment for children and improved access to both the National Library of Australia and Questacon.

Following the appointment of Manteena Pty Ltd as project managers, stage 1 works commenced in September 2008. Construction of the upgraded National Library of Australia forecourt and fountain has commenced.

The project is scheduled for completion in December 2009.

Arts and Civic Campus

Construction of the new National Portrait Gallery and extensions to the National Gallery of Australia both include new entrances and public facilities at ground level and extensive landscape works. These works present an opportunity to redevelop elements of the Arts and Civic Campus and to continue implementing the principles embodied in Amendment 33 to the National Capital Plan – the Master Plan for the Parliamentary Zone.

Planning for the Arts and Civic Campus commenced in September 2006, with the commissioning of master planning by architects, Johnson Pilton Walker, responsible for the National Portrait Gallery, in conjunction with PTW Architects, who are designing the extensions to the National Gallery of Australia.

Stakeholder consultation and design development have continued during 2008–09.

RG Menzies Walk reconstruction

Reconstruction of the existing 1.9 kilometre lake edge gravel path will provide a continuous, fully accessible promenade between Commonwealth Avenue Bridge and Kings Avenue Bridge. The project is the first to be implemented under the Canberra Central Parklands Master Plan and will set the standard for future projects within the parklands. Oxigen Pty Ltd was engaged to design and document the RG Menzies Walk.

The walk project incorporates construction of Citizenship Place in Commonwealth Park.

Extensive consultation was undertaken in November and December 2007 including public and private briefings to stakeholders such as the ACT Government, park user groups and local landscape architects. A report and the final designs were published on the Authority’s website in February 2008.

In June 2008 the tender for project management services was awarded to Manteena Pty Ltd.

The RG Menzies Walk is expected to be completed in November 2009.

Canberra Central Parklands master plan

The Canberra Central Parklands include the existing parks on the northern foreshore of Lake Burley Griffin, namely Commonwealth Park, the Rond Terraces and Kings Park.

On 21 June 2007, Oxigen Pty Ltd was awarded first prize in an international design competition conducted by the Authority for a schematic master plan for the parklands.

Oxigen Pty Ltd was engaged in September 2007 to commence work on a detailed master plan for the parklands, to a brief prepared by the competition jury. Consultation on Oxigen’s competition entry, early development of the master plan, and the first project to be implemented – the RG Menzies Walk – was undertaken in November and December 2007. The competition jury participated in a workshop with Oxigen in February 2008 and in May 2008 provided comment on an initial draft of the master plan. Further development of the master plan, including an implementation strategy, occurred throughout 2008–09.

The Authority considered and approved the Canberra Central Parklands Master Plan Draft 1
in June 2009.

New Works

New projects subject to feasibility studies, design and documentation and/or under construction in 2008–09 included:

• Centenary of the Age Pension commemoration
• York Park North Tree (Oak) Plantation works
• Bowen Drive pedestrian and bicycle crossing
• World War I and World War II memorials – Rond Terrace.

Centenary of the Age Pension commemoration

The Authority designed a commemorative seating alcove to mark the Centenary of the Age Pension. The commemoration was developed in consultation with the Department of Families, Housing, Community Services and Indigenous Affairs. Located beside the Treasury Building in the Parliamentary Zone, the work is scheduled to be unveiled in July 2009 by the Minister for Families, Housing, Community Services and Indigenous Affairs, the Hon Jenny Macklin MP.

York Park North Tree (Oak) Plantation works

The York Park North Tree (Oak) Plantation is located on the corner of Kings Avenue and State Circle, Barton. The plantation, covering an area of 1.7 hectares, is included on the Commonwealth Heritage List. Low-height perimeter stone walls, directional paths and associated landscape works are being built to protect the heritage listed plantation, in accordance with the Authority’s Draft Heritage Management Plan.

Stage 1 of the works, including the erection of perimeter stone walls commenced on 18 June 2009.

Bowen Drive pedestrian and bicycle crossing

The Authority commenced traffic studies to develop options for an improved crossing
for pedestrians and cyclists at Bowen Drive, Parkes, adjacent to Kings Avenue Bridge.
The crossing forms part of the popular route around Lake Burley Griffin’s Central Basin.

World War I and World War II memorials – Rond Terrace

New national memorials on the Rond Terraces, at the foot of Anzac Parade, are being developed to commemorate Australia’s involvement in World War I and II.

The Authority provided advice and guidance to help the Memorials Development Committee develop the competition-winning design for the national memorials. The Prime Minister,
the Hon Kevin Rudd MP, announced the winning entry on 26 February 2009.

6. Corporate

The Authority’s governance framework provides for clear links between its enabling legislation and the outcome for Government, outputs and unit work plans. Governance committees and consultative processes include:

• The Authority
• Management Committee
• Executive briefings
• Audit Committee
• Tender Board
• Remuneration Board
• Occupational Health and Safety Committee
• Authority Consultative Committee
• Chief Executive presentations (including Corporate Forums).

Agency delegations and authorisations

The Authority has delegated its powers under section 49 of the Australian Capital Territory (Planning and Land Management) Act 1988 to the Chief Executive. The Authority has also delegated works approval powers under section 12 of the Act to officers who have responsibility for approving works in Designated Areas of the National Capital.

The Chief Executive delegated a range of powers for general administration of the Authority, under section 47 of the Australian Capital Territory (Planning and Land Management) Act 1988. The Chief Executive delegated limited powers to the Executive Directors, Directors and other key personnel, under the Financial Management and Accountability Act 1997, for authorisation of expenditure of monies and to enter into contracts in accordance with the Chief Executive Instructions.

The Minister for Home Affairs has delegated specific powers under the National Land Ordinance 1989 to the Chief Executive and a number of Executive Director and key Director positions, including applied provisions of the Lakes Ordinance 1976, the Roads and Public Places Ordinance 1937, the Trespass on Commonwealth Lands Ordinance 1932, the City Area Leases Ordinance 1936, the Leases (Special Purposes) Ordinance 1925 and the Leases Ordinance 1918,
in relation to administering National Land.

The Authority has also authorised a number of agency staff to exercise certain powers under the Public Order (Protection of Persons and Property) Act 1971.

Certain powers under the Lands Acquisition Act 1989, relating to acquisition and disposal of land, have been delegated to the Chief Executive, the Executive Director National Capital Estate and the Executive Director National Capital Plan.

In May 2009, the Chief Executive issued new Human Resource delegations covering the
terms and conditons of employment under the Collective Agreement, individial Australian Workplace Agreements and individual section 24(1) Determinations made under the Public Service Act 1999.

The revisions provided Executive Directors, Directors and supervisors with additional authority for approving leave arrangements and determining the working hours of their staff and the power to directly engage non-SES employees (ongoing and non-ongoing) in limited circumstances without reference to the Chief Executive.These delegations provide the Authority with an efficient working environment in the service of the government and the community.

The Authority

The Authority is the primary decision-making body, and provides the National Capital Authority’s leadership and strategic direction. The Authority held five meetings in person and three telephone conference meetings during 2008–09.

Management Committee

The Management Committee is the principal internal leadership and management advisory group, comprising the Chief Executive, the Executive Director Governance, the Executive Director National Capital Plan and the Executive Director National Capital Estate (Chair).
The Management Committee met 15 times during 2008–09.

The committee considered and monitored a range of matters including the Business Plan, governance matters, works program, budgetary performance and the clearance of draft papers for Authority meetings.

Tender Board

The Tender Board comprises the Executive Director Governance (Chairman), Director Corporate, Director of Finance (Chief Finance Officer), and an independent member who also acts as probity adviser. The Tender Board reviewed and approved tender recommendations for contracts in excess of $80,000. The Tender Board met 15 times in 2008–09, to provide scrutiny and approve significant tenders the Authority had undertaken in accordance with the Commonwealth Procurement Guidelines, Financial Management and Accountability Act 1997 and the Chief Executive Instructions.

Audit Committee

The Audit Committee Charter and membership reflects the Australian National Audit Office’s Better Practice Guide Public Sector Audit Committees – Having the Right People is the Key.

The Audit Committee comprises an independent chair, and two internal Authority officers – the Executive Director Governance and the Executive Director National Capital Estate.

The Authority’s Chief Finance Officer attends Audit Committee meetings as an observer and the Australian National Audit Office has a standing invitation to attend committee meetings as an observer.

The Audit Committee met three times during the year to consider the internal audit plan, internal and external audits, certificate of compliance, the fraud control plan and the financial statements. The Audit Committee made a number of recommendations that have brought about performance improvements within the Authority.

Internal audit

To satisfy external compliance, and to ensure internal processes are robust, the Authority undertook four internal reviews relating to policies and procedures during 2008–09. The reviews conducted were:

• Payment of Remuneration to the Chief Executive
• Payroll Process Review
• Review of tendering processes for the RG Menzies Walk
• Migration of Financial Management Information Systems data from SUN to TechnologyOne Enterprise Suite Financials.
• External audit

Ascent Chartered Accountants audited the Authority’s 2008–09 Financial Statements on behalf of the Australian National Audit Office.

The Authority was not involved in any new performance audits or cross-portfolio audits conducted by the Australian National Audit Office during 2008–09.

The Authority continued to implement the recommendations from the Australian National Audit Office’s Performance Audit Report into the National Capital Authority’s Management of National Assets tabled in Parliament on 15 May 2008.

The Authority has been implementing or has fully implemented three of the five recommendations included in the report, namely:

• bringing its asset management framework up to date
• improving its documented asset management framework by implementing a new asset management system linked to its new financial management information systems that enables it to effectively manage the operation and maintenance of national assets
• improving its contractual arrangements for maintenance of national assets, through:
  • revised procurement procedures prior to new contracts being let
  • improvements to the overall contract management and reporting arrangements for new and existing contracts
  • stronger internal controls on the payment of invoices.

In regard to Recommendation 4 concerning funding for priority maintenance activities identified by its expert consultants and accepted by the Authority as being necessary, the Authority continues to prioritise ongoing asset maintenance works within available budget resources.

Recommendation 5 was that the Authority, in consultation with the Department of Finance and Deregulation and the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, develop options for consideration by Government in relation to diplomatic leases that balance both revenue and foreign policy considerations.

In July 2008 the Authority convened an inter-agency committee comprising representatives from the Authority, the Department of Finance and Deregulation, the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, the Attorney-General’s Department and the Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet. The inter-agency committee has undertaken a review of the diplomatic leasing arrangements, as recommended by the Australian National Audit Office, and is expected to report to Government in early 2009–10.

Fraud Control Plan

The Authority’s Fraud Control Plan complies with the requirements of the Commonwealth Fraud Control Guidelines and associated fraud investigation procedures. The Chief Executive Instruction on Fraud Prevention and Control support the plan.

The plan contains fraud risk assessments where potential opportunities to commit fraud
may exist. The methodology used to rank these risks is consistent with the AS/NZS
4360:2004 standard for risk management, the Authority’s Risk Management Framework,
and the Commonwealth Fraud Control Guidelines.

The Audit Committee continues to monitor implementation of the plan as part of its responsibilities to satisfy itself the Authority has appropriate processes and systems in place to capture and effectively investigate fraud-related information. The risk of fraud remains low for the Authority.

The Authority commenced a complete review of its fraud risk assessment in May 2009. The fraud risk assessment will be incorporated into and inform development of the Authority’s updated Fraud Control Plan for 2009–11, which the Executive and the Audit Committee will consider in August 2009.

There were no instances or allegations of fraud against the Authority reported or detected during the year.

Cost recovery

During the year the Authority recovered some of its costs primarily through works approval fees and licence agreements.

Security

The Authority engaged Kellogg Brown and Root to provide advice and guidance on protective security issues across the organisation to ensure the Authority meets it obligations under the Australian Government Protective Security Manual 2007.

The Protective Security Policy and Guidelines of the Authority were reviewed and updated in late 2008, which reflects the Authority’s physical security and operating environment to ensure it complies with the Protective Security Manual.

Authority staff continued to receive security and fraud awareness training during 2008–09. The Authority has also commenced plans to review its physical security arrangements and its major physical assets to ensure compliance with the Protective Security Manual.

During 2008–09, security functioned under the Governance team. Policy and procedures in relation to security are continually reviewed and updated as required.

Risk management

The Authority is committed to a proactive approach to managing risk through an integrated risk management framework, an essential element of the Governance Framework.

To improve reporting, reviewing and monitoring of ongoing risks the Authority requires that:

• all projects have a project plan and a risk assessment is undertaken
• a risk treatment plan is completed where a risk assessment identifies any risk(s) as significant, high or extreme
• projects and associated risks are regularly monitored by the Management Committee
• a direct link is drawn between outcomes and projects identified in the Business Plan and individual employee performance agreements.

The Authority’s integrated Risk Management Framework based on AS/NZS 4360:2004 continues to promote and maintain a risk awareness culture across the organisation. It has delivered tangible results through improved reporting and accountability and stronger links between project outcomes and individual performance.

The Authority commenced a review of its Risk Management Framework as part of the rollout of a new online business planning and project monitoring and delivery system.

Customer service

The Authority’s Customer Service Charter sets out the standards of service stakeholders can expect, including their rights, responsibilities and avenues for feedback. The Charter aims to facilitate a strong and genuine relationship between the Authority and its stakeholders. Information contained in the charter includes:

• the role and functions of the Authority
• commitment to service
• the rights and responsibilities of stakeholders
• how to provide feedback on Authority performance.

Performance against Service Charter

The Authority undertakes to assess most works approvals and respond to written requests for advice within 15 working days. During 2008–09 the Authority approved 289 works approval applications – 265 (91.7%) were finalised within 15 working days.

The Authority also responded to 121 written requests for advice on other planning related matters – 100 (82.6%) were finalised within 15 working days.

Sponsorship and partnerships

The Partnership Policy, Strategy and Plan continued to guide the Authority’s approach to working in collaboration with the Australian Government, the ACT Government, the diplomatic and corporate sectors, and the wider Australian community.

Funds raised for event partnerships with the private sector in 2008–09 reached $63,800 (including GST). In-kind support, particularly through media partners, exceeded $33,000 (including GST). These sponsorships enabled the Authority to engage an event management contractor to deliver the Canberra screening of the national short film competition Tropfest in February 2009.

In June 2008 the Authority signed two-year sponsorship agreements with Colliers International (ACT) Pty Ltd and the Molonglo Group Pty Ltd to deliver an expanded program
of National Carillon recitals. The sponsorship has assisted with the delivery of recitals on Christmas Eve, Valentine’s Day and Canberra Day and extra recitals over the summer months and the National Carillon Open Day.

Continued maintenance of the Old Parliament House Gardens was supported by the Authority’s ongoing partnership with South Australian fertiliser manufacturer, Neutrog Australia Pty Ltd.

Information and communications technology

In 2008–09 the Authority’s Information and Communications Technology section focused on a number of key projects including:

• implementing a website content management system for the Authority’s primary website <www.nationalcapital.gov.au>
• developing and implementing a new project management platform
• helping implement and configure new financial, works and asset management information systems
• implementing a Voice Over IP telephony platform
• renegotiating fixed voice and mobile telephone contracts
• finalising, in conjunction with the National Museum of Australia, a tender process and transitioning to a new information and communications technology managed services provider.

Information technology security

The Authority completed development of a comprehensive information and communications technology security documentation framework to ensure compliance with Commonwealth security policies and guidelines. Security document templates for risk management plans, system security plans and security standard operating procedures for core business systems are in progress.

Implementation of information security reporting tools has enabled the Authority to better assess and mitigate risk to the confidentiality, integrity and availability of information.

Visual communications

The visual communications team provides advice and services to the Authority in the areas of print and web design as well as multimedia production and photography. This unit ensures all publicly released materials are consistent and appropriate to the various target audiences.

During 2008–09 the visual communication team helped release materials that support the core business areas of the Authority, such as amendments to the National Capital Plan, the Urban Design Guidelines for car-park structures, Development Control Plans, Canberra Central Parklands, Humanities and Science Campus, Centenary of the Age Pension and York Park North Tree (Oak) Plantation upgrade.

Promotional materials were also developed to help the National Capital Exhibition promote the National Capital. These included redevelopment of brochures for the National Carillon programs, educations kits and the self-guided walking tours.

This year has also seen continuation of the Authority’s monthly newsletter, Capital 21, a snapshot of Authority activities and events, and the launch of the Authority’s new Content Management System based website.

National Capital Authority new website

The website <www.nationalcapital.gov.au> provides online support to the Authority’s key messages. It educates and informs Australians about the role and significance of the National Capital. The website features a web-based Content Management System, online forms, interactive maps, image galleries and over 50 cultural attractions and venues of national significance, such as Parliament House, the National Gallery of Australia, Anzac Parade, Reconciliation Place and the National Capital Exhibition.

Electronic document and records management system

Following agency-wide implementation in early 2007, the electronic document and records management system (TRIM) has been used as the principal corporate document repository. Customised training for new and current staff continues, including dedicated segments in induction and orientation training for all levels of staff.

The Authority focused on ensuring that new employees were trained in contemporary electronic document management procedures as part of an overall shift from paper-based records.

An upgrade of TRIM was undertaken in January 2009 to improve usability of the system. Further enhancements are underway and will be introduced during 2009–10.

Occupational health and safety

The Occupational Health and Safety Committee was established under the Occupational Health and Safety (Commonwealth Employment) Act 1991 to help the Authority:

• develop, implement and monitor measures to protect the health and safety of employees
• facilitate cooperation and joint discussion between the Authority and its employees on occupational health and safety matters
• disseminate topical information about health and safety in the workplace.

The Occupational Health and Safety Committee met twice during 2008–09. Topics the committee discussed included:

• occupational health and safety training requirements
• appointment of health and safety representatives and emergency contacts
• emergency evacuation procedures
• health and safety policy
• safe work practices for maintenance staff
• influenza vaccinations
• accommodation.

The emergency contacts for the Authority undertook first aid training, fire warden training, health and safety representative training and workplace harassment training.

As part of the Authority’s Occupational Health and Safety Policy, the Authority provided free influenza vaccinations for employees and volunteers in May 2009. Authority employees and their family members also have access to an employee assistance program that provides confidential and free counselling.

During 2008–09 there were no incidents that required reporting under section 68 of the Occupational Health and Safety (Commonwealth Employment) Act 1991.

Human resources

Australia Day achievement medallions

In January 2009 two employees were presented with Australia Day Achievement Medallions. The recipients were Peter Beaumont and Pedro Fortunato. The medallions are part of an Australia Day program for recognising significant achievement and contribution by Australian Public Service employees. They are a central part of the Authority’s recognition and reward arrangements.

Disability Action Plan

The Authority’s Disability Action Plan 2006–08 (see Appendix 2) sets out its approach to addressing awareness, access and opportunities for people with disabilities. The plan represents the Authority’s commitment to the objectives of the Commonwealth Disability Strategy and builds on the principles of workplace diversity and equality of access by ensuring that discrimination on the grounds of disability is eliminated from workplace practices, employment and communications with stakeholders.

Employee consultation and communication

The Consultative Committee provides a forum for consultation with employees and their representatives on workplace issues within the Authority. One of the Committee’s primary responsibilities is to monitor implementation of the 2006–08 Collective Agreement.

The Authority holds weekly business unit meetings to provide employees with information on current issues and feedback from the weekly executive meetings.

Learning and development

The Authority’s Learning and Development Plan identifies and coordinates mandatory and priority corporate and individual training, and manages learning and development activities. Individual development plans are incorporated into the performance management system to ensure learning and development activities are aligned to organisational outcomes. More efficient and strategic use of the learning and development budget is achieved with Authority staff conducting some training and delivering economies of scale through group training.

Key corporate learning and development activities conducted in-house during 2008–09 included:

• APS Values and Code of Conduct
• Electronic document management
• Employee self service
• Financial management
• Fraud and security awareness
• Procurement tips and tricks.

Other learning and development opportunities attended by individual employees during 2008–09 included:

• Contract management
• Digital photography – advanced
• First aid
• Freedom of information
• Health and safety representative
• Insurance
• Management essentials
• Risk management
• Traffic management
• Water management issues conference/workshop
• Workplace harassment
• Workplace relations.

Employment agreements and remuneration

The Authority’s Collective Agreement 2006–08 was approved by staff on 31 August 2006. The comprehensive agreement made under section 328 of the Workplace Relations Act 1996 covers APS 1–6 and Executive Level employees. The agreement nominally expired on 31 July 2008. On 17 September 2008 a section 24(1) determination under the Public Service Act 1999 was made by the interim Chief Executive that provided for a salary increase for employees who were remunerated by way of the Collective Agreement 2006–08 with effect from mid-September 2008. The Collective Agreement features the opportunity for annual pay point advancement and an annual salary increase subject to the employee having met or exceeded expectations under the Authority’s performance management system.

In line with the new Fair Work Act 2009 the Authority will commence negotiations on a new Enterprise Agreement in July 2009.

The Authority has a number of individual Australian Workplace Agreements (AWAs), which expire in September 2012 (see Table 14). The AWAs are comprehensive and provide more flexible remuneration options for the Authority and the employee including access to an annual performance bonus, annual salary increases, payments in lieu of overtime, annual leave cash out options, potential access to additional annual leave, reimbursement of professional membership and/or development fees, and access to Authority-leased vehicles for work and private use.

The remuneration and other conditions of employment for the Authority’s three SES employees are contained in AWAs and are negotiated with the Chief Executive.

A small number of employees have had their Collective Agreement entitlements supplemented by an individual section 24(1) determination made under the Public Service Act 1999. The range of supplementary benefits that are typically available under an individual section 24(1) determination include: a higher commencing salary, access to an annual performance bonus, reimbursement of professional membership and/or development fees, and higher annual salary increases.

Table 14 provides a summary of Authority employees covered by the Collective Agreement, section 24(1) determinations and AWAs.

The Chief Executive’s remuneration is determined in accordance with Remuneration Tribunal Determination 2008/22 – Remuneration and Allowances for Holders of Full-Time Public Office.

Note: These figures do not include employees on long-term leave without pay.

The salary ranges for the Authority’s classification levels covering the Collective Agreement, section 24(1) determinations and AWAs are set out in Table 15.

Note: The table does not include the Chief Executive remuneration.

Performance management

The Authority’s performance management system links individual performance agreements to specific projects in the annual Business Plan. This ensures performance expectations are clearly identified and aligned with business outcomes.

Pay point advancement and the payment of any bonuses that may be applicable under the Collective Agreement, supplementary individual section 24(1) determinations or an AWA are conditional upon the employee having met or exceeded expectations under the Authority’s performance management system

The Authority provided total bonus payments of $191,004.28 to employees in 2008–09 (see Table 16).

Note: These amounts represent payments for the performance cycle 2007–08 and were paid in July 2008. They also include pro-rata payments that were made to employees for the performance cycle 2008–09 who ceased prior to the end of the financial year.

Personnel services and salary processing

The United Group, through an outsourced arrangement, provides payroll processing and related services. The contract commenced in March 2005 for three years and was extended for a further two years until March 2010.

Staffing summary and profile

At 30 June 2009, of the Authority had 59 employees (see Table 17) engaged under the Public Service Act 1999. The Chief Executive is appointed under the Australian Capital Territory (Planning and Land Management) Act 1988. All employees are located in Canberra.

Note: These figures include the Chief Executive, but do not include employees on long-term leave without pay.

Table 18 and Table 19 provide a report on the number of employees in the Authority as at
30 June 2008 and June 2009 by classification, employment category and gender.

Table 18: Ongoing and non-ongoing employees at 30 June 2008

Key: SES – Senior Executive Service; EL – Executive Level; APS – Australian Public Service
Note: These figures do not include employees on long-term leave without pay.

Key: SES – Senior Executive Service; EL – Executive Level; APS – Australian Public Service
Note: These figures do not include employees on long-term leave without pay.

Table 20 and Table 21 provide a report on the number of employees in the Authority as at 30 June 2008 and June 2009 by classification and gender.

Key: SES – Senior Executive Service; EL – Executive Level; APS – Australian Public Service.
Note: The above figures do not include four NCA employees who were on LWOP or on temporary transfer to other government Agencies as at 30 June 2008.

Staff retention and turnover

Twenty-six employees (12 ongoing and 14 non-ongoing) commenced with the Authority
during 2008–09.

Key: SES – Senior Executive Service; EL – Executive Level; APS – Australian Public Service.
Note: The above figures do not include 4 NCA employees who were on LWOP or on temporary transfer to other government Agencies as at 30 June 2008. The above commencements include one employee who returned to the NCA after extended period of LWOP.

Workforce planning/redeployment

A workforce planning session was conducted in May 2009 to help develop the Business Plan for 2009–10.

• Workplace Diversity Plan

The Authority continues to reflect a diverse workforce with 60.3 per cent female employees, 13.3 per cent from a culturally or linguistically diverse background, 3.5 per cent having a disability, and 3.5 per cent being Indigenous.

The Authority’s Workplace Diversity Plan 2006–08 provides a framework to support its goals and principles of equity and diversity in the workplace. Its key objectives are to:

• promote awareness of workplace diversity within the Authority
• develop and maintain a highly-skilled, diverse and effective workforce, where all employees are valued, encouraged and provided with opportunities to develop their potential
• develop a supportive workplace culture that allows staff members to balance their work and personal life
• provide a discrimination and harassment free workplace
• embrace workplace diversity principles in recruitment and selection processes.

At 30 June 2009, the Authority’s 60 employees included a number of identified employees from diverse backgrounds (see Table 22).

Note: These figures include the Chief Executive, but do not include employees on long-term leave without pay.

Finance unit achievements

During 2008–09 the Finance Unit focused on updating and improving a number of key internal control and systems. Significant examples include:

• updating the Chief Executive Instructions
• updating the delegation instrument for Chief Executive Powers and Functions
• revising internal reporting to align with the new corporate management structure
• implementing a new Financial Management Information System (FMIS) and integrated Asset Management System
• migrating 10 years of financial transactional data from the superseded to the new FMIS
• migrating financial asset data from two obsolete financial asset systems to the new system
• training operational staff in use of the new FMIS
• independent valuation of all departmental and administered assets
• meeting all mandatory reporting and compliance obligations.

7. Competitive Tendering and Contracting

The Authority is committed to achieving the best value for money in its procurement practices. To this end, it has developed guidelines and procedures for selecting contractors and consultants and for determining the most desirable procurement arrangement for a range of projects based on size, complexity and special needs.

The Authority has established a Tender Board to consider high-value procurements, which operates within the procurement policy framework established under the Commonwealth Procurement Guidelines. The procurement procedures for tendering further require that comprehensive evaluation criteria, based on the special requirements of a project, be developed before tendering. These criteria address capability, experience and price so as to ensure the Authority is able to strike the right balance in selection.

The procurement policy framework addresses:

• value for money
• competition
• efficient, effective and ethical use of resources
• accountability and transparency.

Further information on expenditure on contracts and consultancies is available on the AusTender website at <http://www.tenders.gov.au>.

Consultants engaged

During 2008–09, 45 new consultancy contracts were entered into with total expenditure of $1,119,611 (including GST). In addition, 17 ongoing consultancy contracts were active during 2008–09, with total expenditure of $1,693,662 (including GST).

A list of all consultancy contracts let to the value of $10,000 or more (including GST) is available on the Authority’s website.

Annual reports contain information about actual expenditure on contracts for consultancies. Information on the value of contracts and consultancies is available on the AusTender website at <http://www.tenders.gov.au>.

Contracts and tenders

The Authority currently contracts out, on a competitive basis, delivery of estate management, asset maintenance, restoration and replacement programs, new capital works, payroll processing and information technology services.

Quality assurance certification

Quality assurance certification to ISO 9002 for the horticultural industry is preferred for provision of services under estate management contracts.

The contractor must provide evidence of an existing quality assurance system or that there is active progress towards having in place a quality assurance system based on ISO 9002 for urban open space maintenance under the contract.

Quality management plan

As part of the conditions of contract for estate management and asset maintenance, contractors prepare and maintain quality management plans that ensure services are delivered in accordance with specifications. Plans must demonstrate a commitment to continuous improvement in service delivery.

Programming and exception reporting

For estate management and asset maintenance contracts, the contractor is required to provide an annual maintenance program, which addresses the requisite activities under each section of the specification.

In addition, the contractor must provide the superintendent with a monthly exception report against the activities of the Annual Maintenance Program.

Contract performance monitoring

The Authority has strengthened the maintenance and performance of estate management and asset maintenance contracts in various ways, including compliance with the specifications in both quality and timeliness. The contract ensures the level of compliance, as specified and measured by the Contract Performance Monitoring System, is met.

Should the specified level of compliance not be met and the contractor fails to show reasonable cause through the monthly exception report, a more detailed assessment may be carried out and the Authority may implement procedures for addressing non-performance under the provisions of the general conditions of contract.

8. Reporting

This chapter includes reporting on social justice and equity, the Authority’s involvement with courts and tribunals, the Commonwealth Ombudsman and Privacy Acts, regulation review and legislative instruments. It also outlines the consultancy services the Authority undertook, and its purchasing, subsidiaries and discretionary grants.

Social justice and equity

The Authority’s vision is for a National Capital that symbolises Australia’s heritage, values and aspirations, is internationally recognised, and worthy of pride by Australians. This vision statement is built into the Portfolio Budget Statements as the Authority’s outcome.

The Authority promotes social justice and equity by integrating planning and policy making with economic, social and environmental considerations. It aims to achieve fair distribution of resources to develop the National Capital thereby providing a quality environment, appropriate environmental standards, sustainability and an efficient structure and transportation network.

The Authority incorporates views of stakeholders and the Australian community through the Consultation Protocol. The protocol sets out the minimum consultation required when the National Capital Plan is being amended, when a development control plan is being made or amended, and on works applications. It also identifies that the Authority hold an annual public forum about the previous year’s work and future directions. Implementation of the protocol allows stakeholders and the Australian community to be involved in the decision-making process.

The Authority aims to provide equal access for Australians to information about their National Capital through its public awareness and educational activities and the Authority website.

Complaints to the Commonwealth Ombudsman

The Commonwealth Ombudsman did not refer any complaints to the Authority for its consideration during 2008–09.

The Ombudsman provided a report to the Authority in August 2008 concerning his investigation and recommendations into a previous complaint from November 2007. The Authority responded to the Ombudsman in late August 2008 agreeing to comply with all four recommendations in the report. All recommendations included in the Ombudsman’s report have been implemented.

Complaints to the Privacy Commissioner

The Authority did not receive any complaints or requests from the Privacy Commissioner during the year.

Regulation review

The Office of Best Practice Regulation, which is part of the Department of Finance and Deregulation, vets and reviews regulations to ensure they are properly formulated and do not impose undue costs on business and the community. A regulation may include any laws or other government ‘rules’ that influence the way people behave. Regulation is not limited to primary or delegated legislation.

Government policy requires that a Regulation Impact Analysis Compliance Return be prepared for regulatory proposals that may affect business, individuals or the economy. Amendments to the National Capital Plan are regulatory proposals.

During 2008–09, the Authority submitted two reports to the Office of Best Practice Regulation outlining three matters. The Office of Best Practice Regulation assessed all of the matters as not requiring preparation of a Business Cost Calculator report or Regulation Impact Statement.

Legislative instruments

The main provisions of the Legislative Instruments Act 2003 commenced on 1 January 2005. As a result, registration on the Federal Register of Legislative Instruments website is now the official form of notification for all legislative instruments, which includes amendments to the National Capital Plan. Under section 57 of the Legislative Instruments Act 2003 the tabling and disallowance provisions of this Act (section 42) supersede provisions set out in section 22 of the Australian Capital Territory (Planning and Land Management) Act 1988. While this does not change the time within which an amendment must be tabled, the time within which a notice of motion to disallow an amendment can be made is now 15 sitting days after tabling, rather than the six sitting days previously allowed under section 22(2) of the Australian Capital Territory (Planning and Land Management) Act 1988.

During 2008–09 one amendment to the National Capital Plan came into effect:

• Amendment 63 – Molonglo and North Weston

Details of this amendment are provided in Chapter 2.

Consultancy services undertaken

The Authority’s functions are contained in section 6 of the Australian Capital Territory (Planning and Land Management) Act 1988. Section 6(f) provides that:

1. with the approval of the Minister, perform planning services for any person or body, whether within Australia or overseas.

In 2008–09 the Authority undertook no consultancy services.

Subsidiaries

The Authority has no subsidiaries.

Discretionary grants

The Authority does not administer any discretionary grants.

Purchasing

The Authority’s policy and Chief Executive Instructions on purchasing goods and services are consistent with Commonwealth Procurement Guidelines, including international obligations, and other policy advice issued by the Department of Finance and Deregulation, maximising competitive opportunities on the basis of value for money. Wherever possible and appropriate, recycled and recyclable products are purchased. Attention is paid to the energy efficiency of equipment and to guidelines on energy efficiency. Contracts and standing offers with a value of $80,000 (including GST) or more are advertised on AusTender. The Authority has no contracts that were exempt from AusTender.

The Authority’s revised Financial Delegations were issued on 28 June 2009 to reflect the Finance Minister’s Delegations and the realignment of the functional responsibilities across the Authority.

The Authority published its Annual Procurement Plan on the AusTender website in accordance with Commonwealth Procurement Guidelines. The Annual Procurement Plan is a strategic procurement outlook, providing details of planned procurement and the estimated date of publishing the request for tender.

Certificate of Compliance

The Authority provided its 2007–08 Certificate of Compliance return to the relevant ministers on 7 August 2008. None of the Financial Management and Accountability Act 1997 breaches detected and reported in the 2007–08 Certificate of Compliance return were of a nature or size to materially affect the signing of the 2007–08 financial statements.

To allow the Authority to operate within its approved budget for 2008–09, a risk-based management approach was developed in relation to the maintenance of national assets. The approach did not obviate the asset management risks but was designed to mitigate, to the extent possible, the level of risk related to public safety and asset protection.

The risk-based approach to the funding of asset maintenance will be continued by the Authority in 2009–10 and future financial years. This will allow the Authority to operate within its approved budget as it has done in 2008–09.

The Authority’s Audit Committee continues to have a major role in the development and endorsement of the Assurance Framework and supporting Guidance Material to manage the Certificate of Compliance processes in the Authority.

The Assurance Framework provides details on the broad scope of coverage for the Authority, a process map outlining the hierarchy of controls and sign-offs required by senior management, the Chief Finance Officer and other key staff with financial delegations and the role of the Audit Committee prior to sign-off by the Chief Executive.

As at 30 June 2009, the Authority is not aware of any Financial Management and Accountability Act 1997 breaches that would materially affect the signing of the 2008–09 financial statements.

Courts and tribunals

The Australian Government Solicitor was instructed to commence legal proceedings to recover funds from City Group. A Statement of Claims lodged with the Supreme Court has been served on City Group.

Appendix 1 - Financial Statments and Independent Audit Report

Click here to download the Appendix 1 in PDF Format

Appendix 2 - Mandatory Reporting

Freedom of information

Section 8 of the Freedom of Information Act 1982 requires all government agencies to publish a statement setting out the organisation’s role, its structure and functions, details of documents available for public inspection and facilities to access documents. Details of the Authority’s structure and functions is available for public inspection through the Authority’s library and website at <www.nationalcapital.gov.au>.

Documents the Authority holds which may be available for inspection under the Freedom of Information Act 1982 include records and files on administration, correspondence, contracts, financial statements, plans and project details, and decisions of the Authority.

The Authority received five requests for information during the year. As at 30 June 2009, the Authority had two outstanding requests for documents under the Freedom of Information Act 1982.

Enquiries and requests under the Freedom of Information Act 1982 should be made to:

The Freedom of Information Officer
National Capital Authority
GPO Box 373
Canberra ACT 2601

Telephone: +61 2 6271 2888
Facsimile: +61 2 6273 4427
Email: This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it

Advertising and market research

In accordance with amendments to the Commonwealth Electoral Act 1918, all Australian Government departments and authorities are required to set out in their annual reports, details of amounts paid by or on behalf of them during the year to advertising agencies as well as market research, media advertising and direct mail organisations. This information is presented in Table 23.

Ecologically sustainable development and environmental performance

The Authority is responsible for planning Canberra’s future development through planning and approval processes that preserve the special character of the National Capital for all current and future Australians. Section 516A of the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (EPBC Act) requires government agencies to publish a report on their environmental and ecologically sustainable development (ESD) performance.

How the activities of the authority accord with the principles of ESD (section 516a(6)(a))

The Authority’s purpose is to manage the Australian Government’s continuing interest in Canberra’s planning and development as the National Capital. ESD considerations are incorporated into the Authority policy framework, such as the National Capital Plan and the Authority Environment Policy 2002.

The Authority Corporate Plan 2005–10 vision is ‘a National Capital which symbolises Australia’s heritage, values and aspirations, is internationally recognised, and worthy of pride by Australians’. While ESD principles are not explicitly stated in the Corporate Plan they are aligned to the goals the Authority has set to achieve its vision and, through these goals, are integrated into all business operations.

The following Corporate Plan goals reflect the intentions of the ESD Integration Principle and the Intergenerational Principle:

• to realise the promise of the city plan and the ideals of the founders we will work towards:
  • a capital that is relevant to Australians, reflecting Australia’s rich and diverse heritage, its people and their aspirations
  • a robust and sustainable planning framework that supports the needs of the capital now and in the future, and establishes a dynamic relationship between the capital’s cultural and natural settings.
• to foster Canberra as the National Capital we will work towards:
  • a capital that broadens the experience of all Australian citizens and stimulates their understanding of country and culture.
• to develop the special character of the National Capital we will work towards:
  • retention and enhancement of Canberra’s unique landscape character and recognition of Australia’s diverse cultural heritage
  • management and enhancement of the value of National Land and assets for current and future generations – managing heritage places to protect and conserve their heritage values in accordance with our heritage strategy.

The Authority has in place other formal guidelines to facilitate staff consideration of ESD and the principles of ESD when undertaking the diverse activities of the Authority. These guidelines are the Risk Management Framework and the Guidelines for Events in the
National Capital.

the Authority’s Risk Management Framework strengthens decision-making in the public interest and places more emphasis on consultation and communication. It respects core Australian Public Service Values, such as honesty, integrity and probity at all levels, and contributes to improved results by managing risk proactively. Integrated risk management also supports a whole-of-government view based on rational priority setting and principles of responsible spending.

How the administration of legislation by the authority accorded with the principles of ESD (section 516a(6)(a))

The Authority is established by, and operates under, the Australian Capital Territory (Planning and Land Management) Act 1988. The Authority’s functions, established under the Act, include preparing, administering and constantly reviewing the National Capital Plan.

Under the National Capital Plan, matters of national significance include ‘development of a city which both respects environmental values and reflects national concerns with the sustainability of Australia’s urban areas’. One of the key objectives of the National Capital Plan is to ‘support and promote environmentally responsible urban development practices’.

Works approval forms part of the Authority’s role under section 12 of the Australian Capital Territory (Planning and Land Management) Act 1988. The Authority approves works within the Designated Areas of the National Capital Plan. During 2008–09 the Authority approved 116 works approval applications relating to a place within the Commonwealth Heritage List and/or the Register of the National Estate.

During 2008–09 the Authority made two referrals to the Department of the Environment, Water, Heritage and the Arts under section 28 of the EPBC Act for:

• construction of a signalised bridge and underpass and tree removal at the Kings Avenue and Russell roundabout, Parkes
• protection, horticultural and upgrading works at the York Park North Tree (Oak) Plantation, Barton

Four internal heritage impact assessments were prepared for:

• replacement plaque for the Bert Flugelman Sculpture Earthwork in Commonwealth Park, Parkes
• Centenary of the Aged Pension commemoration, Parkes
• removal of dead/hazardous trees on Anzac Parade
• Anzac Parade pavement reconstruction.

As well, during 2008–09 the Authority:

• attended liaison meetings with the Department of the Environment, Water, Heritage and the Arts to discuss matters of mutual interest to ensure protection and conservation of heritage places the Authority manages
• provided ongoing briefings to the department
• commented on 14 EPBC Act referrals for the department.

How the outcomes specified in a relevant appropriations Act contribute to ESD (section 516a(6)(b))

The Authority’s vision, which is reflected in its Portfolio Budget Statement for 2008–09, is to achieve ‘a National Capital which symbolises Australia’s heritage, values and aspirations, is internationally recognised, and worthy of pride by Australians’. While not explicitly specifying an ESD contribution, the outcome broadly reflects the intentions of ESD.

Effect of the authority’s activities on the environment (section 516a(6)(c))

The Authority uses 10 per cent Green Energy on all of its contestable sites managed under the Whole-of-Government Energy Contract.

In addition the formal arrangements the Authority has established include a number of other initiatives intended to minimise the impact of its activities on the environment. They include:

• placing notices in the Authority kitchens about use of dishwashers to reduce water use
• placing recycling bins in the Authority kitchens.

The Authority has undertaken a number of measures to minimise the impact of event activities on the environment. They include:

• establishing guidelines for events on National Land; environmental impact is included as an assessment criteria for determining whether the event is appropriate
• the Authority’s Events Risk Management Package is provided to organisers planning an event on Authority-managed land; they include risks to the environment
• the Waste Management Plans for Events are prepared in consultation with the event organisers and experienced waste contractors.

The Authority issues permits to other organisations to run events on National Land. One of the most significant environmental effects of these activities is waste generation. In late 2003, the Authority introduced the requirement for provision of recycling bins at events. This continued in 2008–09 as a requirement for any organisation running events on National Land.

For all major Capital Works projects, the Authority undertakes environmental assessments in accordance with the requirements of the EPBC Act to determine whether referral to the Environment Minister is necessary.

The Authority manages a number of National Land sites that contain species on the list of nationally threatened species and threatened ecological communities declared under the EPBC Act. Ongoing management of these sites is guided by action plans prepared by Environment ACT in accordance with the Nature Conservation Act 1980.

Measures being taken by the authority to minimise the impact of its activities on the environment (section 516a(6)(d))

During 2008–09, the Authority undertook a range of measures that minimised the impact of its activities on the environment. They included:

• water resource management measures to manage the water resources under
  its control
• the ongoing implementation of a water resource management policy that meets the Authority’s key objectives ‘to support and promote environmentally responsible urban development and management practices’
• the Water Resource Management Strategy continues to address key water resource issues for the National Capital and has established the Authority’s objectives for managing water resources under its control
• the Lake Burley Griffin Water Quality Management Plan, which specifies actions required for effective management of the lake’s water quality, outlines roles and responsibilities, monitoring regimes, response protocols and communication with regulatory agencies, stakeholders and the public
• the Lake Burley Griffin Abstraction Plan establishes sustainable water consumption and water level targets for Lake Burley Griffin
• the Aquatic Plants Control Program through which the Authority monitors and controls excessive plant growth in the lake to minimise nuisance and potential safety risks to recreational and other lake users; harvested weed is gathered and removed to avoid decayed material affecting water quality.

In February–March 2009, the Authority harvested aquatic submerged plants in excess of 15 hectares of the lake at a cost of approximately $37,000 (including GST). Cutting was undertaken in mooring areas, designated swimming areas and boat launching areas. In excess of 60 tonnes (wet weight) of aquatic plants were cut and removed from the lake.

The Authority has an ongoing comprehensive water quality monitoring program for the lake. Information is reported on the Authority’s website.

The purpose of the Lake Burley Griffin Recreation Policy is to address key recreational management issues for the lake and establish the Authority’s objectives for managing water-based recreation and enable it to effectively manage use of the lake in a way that promotes its national significance.

The Authority issued permits to other organisations to run events on National Land. A number of measures have been developed to minimise the impact of these events on the environment. They included:

• Weed control. The Authority has a program for regularly undertaking weed control activities on sites containing species that are on the list of nationally threatened species and ecological communities declared under the EPBC Act. This program includes removal of woody weeds. The Authority is also a member of the Weeds Working Group that comprises most of the Territory’s land managers.
• Removal of woody weeds along the Molonglo River, downstream from the Scrivener Dam wall, was undertaken in May 2009. Removal of the invasive weeds improves the river flows and was necessary for the uninhibited discharge of water from the dam wall under flood conditions.
• Partnering with volunteer groups. In April 2009 the Authority forged an ongoing partnership with the volunteer group, Friends of the Grasslands. This partnership focuses on reinvigorating two ecologically significant grassy ecosystems around Lake Burley Griffin – the natural temperate grassland at Yarramundi Reach and the grassy yellow box woodland at Stirling Ridge. These projects involved holding volunteer working bees to identify and remove woody and grassy weeds from discrete portions of the sites. Targeted weeding in these delicate ecosystems is a fine-scale task that is not possible with conventional machinery. During the year the Authority commissioned a natural temperate grasslands management plan by an independent environmental consultant. This plan will help develop management plans to revitalise the native grasslands.
• Fire management. During the year, the Authority continued negotiating with the ACT Government and Emergency Services regarding fire management across the Territory. A strategic bushfire management plan has been developed, including identifying fuel hazard levels on National Land and management practices.
• Hot air balloon procedure. The Authority publishes a map for hot air balloon operators that outlines sites containing threatened species and threatened ecological communities that should not ordinarily be used for landing purposes.

In raising awareness of the impact of climate change, the Authority participated in the World Wide Fund for Nature’s Earth Hour climate change awareness event in Canberra. This is the second year the Authority has been involved in Earth Hour.

Appendix 3 - Resources for Outcomes

Agency Resource statement 2008–09

Resources for outcomes

Note: *Portfolio Budget Statements 2009–10, Attorney-General’s Portfolio p. 325

Glossary