Treasurer's Invitation

I would like to invite the community to participate in the development of the 2012-13 Budget by sharing views on how the ACT Government’s resources are allocated, where services could be enhanced, and where possible efficiencies could be made.

The 2011-12 Budget has created a strong platform for the delivery of the Government’s Budget Plan. In line with the plan, the Budget expects to deliver a forecast underlying surplus of $1.6 million in 2013-14.

The improved net operating balance is to be achieved through a shift in Government expenditure, from the operating costs of the public service to the delivery of essential services and address the cost of living pressures on Canberra families.

In the ACT, we have a demonstrated record of sound and sustainable economic and financial management, and the fundamentals of our economy remain strong. We have stable and robust growth, low unemployment and high labour participation, and relatively high wages compared to the rest of the nation.

But we are not immune from global factors. Ongoing financial market volatility, however, has created uncertainty and instability across world economies. Consumers continue to be cautious and this weighs on our national household consumption.

We are mindful of some risks to our budget position including slower growth in the GST pool due to the lower household consumption, lower investment returns for both our superannuation investments and the Territory’s cash balances, and higher superannuation liability and expenses.

The Government remains committed to ensuring that core services, community safety and risk management are maintained to the high standard the community expects.

As part of its planning framework, the Government is committed to engaging the community on these issues. Indeed, this is a fundamental component of the budget process.

I encourage you to take this opportunity to participate in the planning of the Territory’s resource and expenditure priorities.

I look forward to working with all ACT residents to return the budget to surplus while maintaining essential services and delivering the infrastructure required for the future needs of our Territory.

Andrew Barr
Treasurer

The 2012–13 Budget Consultation Paper

2012-13 Budget Consultation (PDF)

The 2012–13 ACT Budget Consultation Paper provides an overview of the Budget and valuable background information to assist the community in providing quick and easy input into the 2012-13 Budget development.

This paper provides advice on the Budget Context and Process, including information on the budget position and the revised parameters in Budget Plan. It also contains details of major revenue and expenditure lines of the budget.

The Government is seeking the views of the community on how the ACT’s resources are allocated, where services could be enhanced and where possible efficiencies could be made.

View the press advertisment (PDF)

Written Submissions

Written submissions can be emailed to: budgetconsultation@act.gov.au or posted to:

ACT Budget Consultation
Treasury Directorate
GPO Box 158
CANBERRA ACT 2601

For further enquiries, please call the ACT Treasury Directorate on: 6207 1375

The closing date for feedback is 24 February 2012.