2023-02-09
ACT Greens Member for Brindabella Johnathan Davis MLA will chair a Select Committee of the ACT Legislative Assembly examining the cost of living crisis and identifying how the ACT Government can best support Canberrans struggling with cost of living pressures.
“We know Canberrans are struggling with the rising cost of living. Canberrans have noticed all of their bills going up - rent, groceries, utilities, petrol, healthcare - everything is getting more expensive,” Mr Davis said.
“As chair of this committee, I am committed to leading an inquiry that will bring together experts, peak stakeholders and the broader community to find real and practical solutions to address this cost of living crisis. That's why the committee has committed to a reporting timeframe that ensures recommendations made to the ACT Government can inform the development of the 2023/24 Budget.
“I understand what it feels like to be broke in a rich city. I grew up in public housing. I’ve been homeless. I’ve worked multiple minimum wage jobs at one time to make ends meet. I’ve put off medical procedures because I couldn't afford them. Based on these experiences, I am committed to this important work which has the power to deliver real outcomes for Canberrans doing it tough.”
ACT Greens Leader Shane Rattenbury said that cost of living was an issue at the forefront of the Greens’ agenda at all levels of government.
“Addressing cost of living issues is at the top of the Greens agenda. The Greens will always work hard to give a voice to the most vulnerable in our community, and those who are doing it tough,” Mr Rattenbury said.
“At the Federal level, last year my Australian Greens colleague, Senator Janet Rice, established a Senate inquiry into poverty and the cost of living. The Greens are working hard at every level of Government to ensure that the cost of living crisis is at the forefront of conversation.
“There are many factors that contribute to the rising cost of living. Federal issues like inflation and interest rates chief among them. At the local level, the ACT Greens are committed to doing everything we can to support Canberrans struggling with the rising cost of living.
“This inquiry will be really important to identify what levers we have here to help make life a little easier for Canberrans. I encourage Canberrans to participate in the process to ensure the committee can deliver for Canberrans.”