Chief Minister, Katy Gallagher, today opened Microsoft's new Canberra office which is the latest major IT company to open a major office in the ACT.

"The ACT Government is working towards creating Canberra as a digital city and the emergence of more IT companies setting up office spaces here in the national capital shows that the ACT is developing as an economy worth investing in," the Chief Minister said.

"A major priority of the ACT Government is to diversify the economy away from being solely reliant on the public service and I am pleased to see major companies like Microsoft investing in office space in Canberra that help to achieve this change."

Located in Barton, the new office has been designed to support Microsoft's embrace of the philosophy of Activity Based Working allowing Microsoft staff to choose when, where and how they would like to work each day.

The flexible and open workplace design offers a host of shared spaces and amenities, and employees can operate wherever they want – at the office, at home or on the go.

"It is always a pleasure to open new workplaces in the ACT and applaud Microsoft for their innovative approach for a workspace for their employees," the Chief Minister said.

The Chief Minister said Microsoft also made a significant contribution to the Canberra community – through charitable activities and education programs that are assisting our schools, colleges and universities.

"I particularly welcome Microsoft's announcement this morning about the Microsoft Student Advantage Program that is to be piloted with the Education and Training Directorate next year, and which will allow students in the ACT free access to a range of Microsoft products," the Chief Minister said.

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