Michael McCormack (Riverina, National Party, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister for Finance) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

I move:

That, in accordance with the provisions of the Public Works Committee Act 1969, it is expedient to carry out the following proposed work which was referred to the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Public Works and on which the committee has duly reported to Parliament: Hamilton Island replacement fire station project.

As I advised the House when referring this project to the Public Works Committee, Airservices Australia is proposing to construct a new aviation rescue and firefighting facility at Hamilton Island. The facility will include new fire tender bays, maintenance facilities, a fire control centre, office facilities, amenities and associated storage.

The committee has conducted an inquiry and is of the view that the project signifies value for money for the Commonwealth and constitutes a project which is fit for purpose and expedient to carry out. The government expects all agencies to understand and comply with their obligations under the Public Works Committee Act 1969. As recommended by the committee, my department will shortly be writing to agencies to remind them of their obligations and the important oversight role which the committee plays.

On behalf of the government, I would like to thank the committee for once again undertaking a timely inquiry. Subject to parliamentary approval, construction is expected to commence in mid-2015 and be completed on all sites by mid-2016. I commend the motion to the House.

Question agreed to.