2025-08-01
Under questioning from the ACT Greens during Estimates yesterday, Labor Minister for City Services Tara Cheyne refused to commit to a library remaining in Civic, forecasting an announcement of its future towards the end of the year.
"Labor has left the future of Civic Library up in the air,” said Andrew Braddock MLA, ACT Greens Spokesperson for City Services.
"Why are ACT Libraries once again an afterthought for this government? They are essential services that people depend on every day for free access to the internet, information, and a warm third space."
During the hearing, Minister Cheyne stated that a report on the state of ACT Libraries had been provided to staff on Wednesday. “How long will Canberrans be left in limbo about the future of their libraries?”
Mr Braddock also questioned the increased fees for community organisations to hire rooms. The Government admitted the change that doubled the fee for not-for-profit- organisations was done in order to simplify the fee structure. "What was once a free, third space for the community has seen room hire fees double for not-for-profit groups.”
"Labor has asked not-for-profit organisations to come up with hundreds of dollars to simply meet in a library. These organisations make fantastic and valuable contributions to our local community, whether it be language classes, education on health matters, and bringing groups together. They should not be penalised.”
"Just like the $11 Working with Vulnerable People fee proposed for volunteers, Labor is showing that they are out of touch with Canberrans. They are disincentivising people helping out their community at a time when we need those services the most."
"I call on the government to immediately suspend these fees and re-install free room hire inside ACT Libraries."
Mr Braddock also asked about inconsistent staffing levels across ACT Library branches.
"Two months after Labor rejected a Greens' proposal for increased funding to boost staff numbers, it's been revealed that three ACT Library branches have less than three full-time equivalent staff."
"Labor has a choice when it comes to libraries: fund them as an essential service or sideline them.
“I stand with library staff who have been neglected by Labor’s systemic underfunding and uncertainty. Through no fault of the staff, ACT Libraries have been unable to reliably keep libraries door open to serve the Canberra community.”
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