Brendan O'Connor (Gorton, Australian Labor Party) Share this | Hansard source

On behalf of the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Public Works I present the following reports of the committee: the 69th annual report; the fourth report for 2006, on the fit-out of an extension to leased premises for IP Australia in Woden, Australian Capital Territory; and the fifth report for 2006, on the redevelopment of post 1945 conflicts galleries and the discovery room for the Australian War Memorial, Canberra.

Ordered that the reports be made parliamentary papers.

by leave—I present the committee’s fourth report of 2006, which addresses the fit-out of an extension to leased premises for IP Australia in Woden, Australian Capital Territory, at an estimated cost of $12.95 million. IP Australia expects that the proposed work will enhance operational efficiencies, reduce environmental impacts, improve amenities for staff and visitors and improve security arrangements.

The committee investigated all aspects of the work, paying particular attention to the impact of lease incentive arrangements on reported project costs and the proposed incorporation of a cafe and gymnasium, which had not been finalised at the time of the public hearing.

Following consultation with the Department of Finance and Administration, the committee was satisfied that the lease incentive obtained by IP Australia represents standard commercial practice and that any surplus funds would be returned to consolidated revenue. In respect of the gymnasium and cafe, it is recommended that IP Australia keep the committee informed as to the final decision regarding the inclusion of these facilities in the building extension. The committee recommends further that the project proceed at the estimated cost of $12.95 million.

The committee’s fifth report of 2006 presents findings in relation to the proposed redevelopment of the post 1945 conflicts galleries and the discovery room at the Australian War Memorial.

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