Kristy McBain (Eden-Monaro, Australian Labor Party, Minister for Regional Development, Local Government and Territories) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

McBAIN (—) (): I move:

That, in accordance with section 5 of the Parliament Act 1974, the House approve the following proposal for work in the Parliamentary Zone, which was presented to the House on 5 September 2022, namely: West Block new construction and refurbishment works.

In accordance with section 5 of the Parliament Act 1974, this motion seeks approval from the House for construction and refurbishment works at the historic West Block building, within the Parliamentary Zone, to enable its renewal and subsequent ongoing use as office accommodation. West Block is located at the intersection of Queen Victoria Terrace, State Circle and Commonwealth Avenue in Canberra. It was previously used as offices for Commonwealth agencies prior to its sale in 2017.

The National Capital Authority received a works approval application for the proposal and is seeking approval for the works. The works are a new portico at its entrance, access ramps, a small building to house health and recreation facilities and works to refresh the nearby landscape. The proponent will also undertake works to improve and maintain the heritage values of the current building.

The project has been developed by the owner in consultation with the Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water and the National Capital Authority. The owner has met obligations under the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 and, following consideration by both houses of parliament, the National Capital Authority is prepared to grant approval for the proposed works. I commend the motion to the House.

Question agreed to.