Mr SLIPPER (11:31 AM) —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: Development of the Eastern Region Operations Centre at RAAF Base Williamtown, NSW.

The Department of Defence proposes to construct new facilities in the operational zone on the base. This will enable No. 41 Wing Headquarters and No. 3 Control and Reporting Unit to be collocated and integrated, leading to operational efficiencies, and will replace existing unsatisfactory accommodation occupied by No. 3 Control and Reporting Unit at Duckhole Hill near the base.

The proposal will provide administrative, operational, technical and training accommodation for the two units, which will have a combined strength of 170 personnel.

The estimated out-turn cost of the proposal is $18 million. Subject to parliamentary approval, construction would commence in November 1998 and be completed by March 2000.

The Public Works Committee, in its report tabled on 30 June 1998, recommended the construction of these facilities and commented that it is both necessary and urgent for state, local government and the Commonwealth to address the question of responsibilities and combine forces to undertake flood mitigation measures. The department agrees with the recommendations of the committee.

I would like to thank the committee for its support. I commend the motion to the House.