Murray Watt (Queensland, Australian Labor Party, Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry) Share this | Hansard source

What I can tell you is that Defence absolutely recognises the importance of this project to the community and is seeking to deliver its commitments. As you're probably aware, Senator Tyrrell, under the Launceston City Deal, Defence committed to the divestment of Paterson Barracks, with the intention that a new cadet facility could be established within the University of Tasmania Newnham Campus. Defence could not complete the planned settlement by 22 July owing to land title issues to be resolved between the Tasmanian government and the University of Tasmania. Defence has committed resources in the expectation of land being available for development. Defence plans to tender the works package for the facility following completion of land acquisition activities. As you have indicated, Senator Tyrrell, that process is still under way.

Defence recognises the land title issues are a matter for the Tasmanian government and the university to resolve. Defence will continue to work closely with all parties to progress its commitment to the City Deal, including the divestment of Paterson Barracks. Senator Tyrrell, as you would appreciate, not ordinarily being the minister representing, I'm not really across the finer details of this proposal. I'm happy to get some further information for you. From everything I have just said it would suggest that it may be difficult to meet the timeline that you're talking about, but Defence is absolutely committed to this project going ahead and will continue to work closely with all parties to progress its commitment to the City Deal, including the divestment of Paterson Barracks.