ANDREW Barr says the ACT budget bottom line has improved by $60 million based on new Treasury figures tabled in the Assembly today.

“We are now looking at a lower deficit of $172.1 million, compared to a previous estimate of $232.5 million,” Andrew said.

“This is down to increased revenue and measured spending. Government revenue is up by $37.2 million, due to our healthy commercial and residential property markets. Expenses are also lower than forecast.

“Ours is a prudent government which invests in high quality services while operating one of the fairest and most efficient tax systems in Australia. We are on a path to a balanced bottom line, having responsibly used the budget to help prop up the economy in the face of brutal cuts from the Liberals.

“Canberra’s economy is going well despite thousands of Canberrans being sacked by the Liberals. We have the lowest unemployment in Australia and Triple A credit rating.

“Our plan to diversify the economy and reduce reliance on the Federal Government is working. International flights which start in September will provide a further boost, with Singapore Airlines joining major international businesses like Ikea, Costco and QantasLink in choosing Canberra.”