ALBERT Hall and Yarralumla Woolshed are now more easily available for events such as weddings, 21st birthday parties and dances, after the ACT Government introduced a new policy that provides more affordable public liability insurance.

As part of a 12 month trial from July 1, casual hirers can get insurance coverage for about $150 (ex GST) per event in addition to the hiring fee.

Chief Minister Katy Gallagher said the Government anticipates the change will result in a high number of bookings.

“This will make it easier for members of the community, especially young people, to hire these two venues, which have such strong ties to Canberra,” Chief Minister Katy Gallagher said.

“The previous requirement for people hiring the venues to belong to organisations which had public liability insurance often restricted the number of casual hirers.

“In 2011/12 there were approximately 40 hirers of the two facilities who may have benefited from the scheme.”

Gallagher said that the current arrangements for commercial and incorporated community hirers will remain in place.

Risk management plans covering issues such as security, first aid and crowd dispersal will be required for certain events such as 21st birthdays.

More information at www.tams.act.gov.au or call Canberra Connect on 13 22 81.