Today Canberra’s Federal Labor representatives Senator Kate Lundy, Bob McMullan MP and Annette Ellis MP announced a Rudd Labor Government will commit $500,000 towards the cost of restoring Albert Hall.
The Albert Hall is listed on the Register of Significant Twentieth Century Architecture, the National Trust of Australia (ACT) Register and the ACT Heritage Places Indicative List.
The Albert Hall is also currently listed on the Register of the National Estate, but as a result of a Howard Government decision, this Register is in the process of being repealed and its limited protections will no longer apply.
“A Rudd Labor Government will assess Albert Hall for inclusion on the National Heritage List, so future generations can continue to enjoy this terrific local venue”, Ms Ellis said at today’s announcement on the steps of Albert Hall.
“We congratulate the ACT Labor Government for their ongoing commitment to managing the Albert Hall on behalf of all citizens of Canberra, for whom the Albert Hall has a unique cultural significance, in addition to providing a venue for a diverse range of community activities and events.”, the Member for Fraser, Bob McMullan said.
“The Albert Hall was the heart and soul of civic life in the early years of the national capital and is still a much-loved landmark. In this respect it has local and national heritage significance.” Ms Ellis said.
“The Howard government’s track record on heritage is dismal. Whilst the Federal government continues to drag its feet on properly recognising our unique heritage, this commitment means a unique part of the ACT’s heritage and history will now be preserved”, Senator Lundy said.
“Federal Labor’s funding commitment will allow restoration and repair work to continue on this wonderful community asset and we look forward to working with the ACT Government to ensure a sustainable future for the Albert Hall as a community asset”, Senator Lundy concluded.
Contact: Rachel Allen – 0418 488 295 (Lundy) Annie Williams – 6247 4396 (McMullan) Ash Musgrove – 0419 020 419 (Ellis)
For comment from the Friends of Albert Hall please contact Lenore Coltheart on 0413 300 874
