House debates

Thursday, 9 March 2023

Committees

Public Works Joint Committee; Approval of Work

11:34 am

Photo of Andrew LeighAndrew Leigh (Fenner, Australian Labor Party, Assistant Minister for Competition, Charities and Treasury) Share 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: Department of Employment and Workplace Relations and the Australian Electoral Commission—Proposed fit-out of new premises at London Quarter Block 40, Section 100, Canberra City, ACT.

The Department of Employment and Workplace Relations and the Australian Electoral Commission are proposing to fit out a new office that will be constructed at London Quarter block 40, section 100, Canberra City, ACT. The new office, which will also be occupied by the Department of Education under a memorandum of understanding with the Department of Employment and Workplace Relations, will consolidate staff from 11 buildings across Canberra. The proposed works will increase operational efficiency, promote greater collaborative work practices and reduce property operating costs. The estimated cost of the fit-out is $149.6 million, excluding GST. Subject to parliamentary approval, the fit-out works are expected to commence in September 2024 and be completed by March 2026. Following its inquiry, the committee has recommended that the House of Representatives resolve, pursuant to section 18(7) of the Public Works Committee Act 1969, that it is expedient to carry out this project.

On behalf of the government, I would like to thank the committee, ably chaired by the member for Moreton, for undertaking a timely inquiry. I commend the motion to the House.

Question agreed to.

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