1983 Cabinet minutes released

The release of the 1983 Cabinet Minutes reveals a state undergoing tremendous change, Information Technology Minister Ian Walker announced at today’s release of the documents.

Mr Walker said Queensland, especially in the north-west, was suffering from extremely hot and dry conditions, with more than 50 shires drought declared.

“There was a lot happening on the political front also – Australia went to the polls in March and voted in the Hawke Labor government, while in October Queensland voted for Sir Joh Bjelke-Petersen to continue his time as Premier for a further three years,” Mr Walker said.

“It was the year after the 1982 Commonwealth Games, and the city was in the mood for more big events with Brisbane gaining the world’s attention when it was chosen to host the 1988 World Expo.

“Cabinet prepared the Expo 88 Bill, sought Commonwealth funding, and the decision was made to resume and rezone land in South Brisbane, which is known today as South Bank.

“It was also a landmark year for arts and culture and in 1983 stages two and three of the now very popular Cultural Precinct were well underway. The Queensland Museum and QPAC were both at stage two and the Queensland Art Gallery was in the first stage of its construction.”

“Looking at Cabinet Minutes is a fascinating way for Queenslanders to learn about the state’s history.

“They remind us of the importance of restoring accountability in government, as we promised at the election.

“They also emphasise how the Newman Government’s open data policy and releasing previously unseen information can benefit all Queenslanders.”

Mr Walker said the Cabinet Minutes showed how technology was beginning to shape Queensland.

“In a sign of the times, Cabinet approved the Education Department’s policy on the use of ‘micro-computers’,” he said.

“About 600 computers, purchased by Parents and Citizens Associations, were already in use in schools and Cabinet considered allocating $1 million in the next budget for ‘the development of computer education’.”

The 1983 Cabinet Minutes will be available to the public at Queensland State Archives, 435 Compton Road, Runcorn, from Thursday 2 January 2014.  Queensland State Archives is open to the public on weekdays from 9.00am to 4.30pm, and on the second Saturday of each month during the same hours.

[ENDS] 1 January 2014
Media Contact: Alex Bernard    0417 252 563