ACT Greens MLA Laura Nuttall brought forward a motion calling on the Government to negotiate with the owner of Richardson Shops to better align use of the site, which is currently derelict, with community expectations.
ACT Labor MLA Caitlin Tough moved amendments noting other policy measures and changes that could support these local shops.
Canberra Liberals MLA Deborah Morris made further amendments to review the effect of government charges on the viability of small suburban businesses, and noted the impact of lease variation charges on the commercial viability of the shops.
Thomas supported Ms Morris’ amendments, acknowledging the direct interaction between small business viability and commercial vacancy rates across the ACT.
ACT Labor and the ACT Greens voted down Ms Morris’ amendments, and the motion passed with the Government’s amendments which were passed unopposed.