ANDREW Barr has announces the establishment of a new ‘one-stop shop’ to cut red tape and connect Canberrans to government services.

“Access Canberra” will connect Canberrans to the ACT Government and will include Canberra Connect.

Its’ new function will be to bring together the shopfronts and regulatory arms into a single service.

The service will be available to small and large businesses, community groups and individuals seeking access to permits, approvals and licenses needed to establish a new business or event in the ACT.

“I want to see Access Canberra engaging with these businesses and groups as soon as possible, discussing how the service can streamline engagement with ACT Government directorates,” Andrew said.

“I regularly hear from businesses and individuals who feel frustrated at the multiple approval bodies they have to contact throughout the ACT Government during this process. As Chief Minister I want this to improve.

“The aim of the initiative is to introduce a ‘no wrong door’ approach for entrepreneurs engaging with the ACT Government. Access Canberra will work closely with businesses, community and sporting organisations to help them thrive. I also expect to see more services and information available online through Access Canberra.

“One of my priorities as the ACT Chief Minister is to have a greater focus on regulatory reform and to drive red tape reduction. It is important that the ACT Government maintains high standards of health, safety and probity for everyone in our community. However, we must also enable businesses and community groups to do great things in our city.”

The new service will be located in the Chief Minister, Treasury and Economic Development Directorate.