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Thursday, 1 March 2012
Page: 2449

Mr GRAY (Brand—Special Minister of State and Minister for the Public Service and Integrity) (09:41): 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: RAAF Base East Sale redevelopment, Sale, Victoria.

RAAF Base East Sale is the primary officer training base for the RAAF and is also a main operating air base, providing continuous support to two operational squadrons, visiting operational squadrons, minor exercises and operations, and contracted search and rescue operations. The RAAF base redevelopment project, estimated at $185.6 million, plus GST, proposes to improve the functionality and capability of the base by upgrading or replacing inadequate and non-compliant facilities, infrastructure and engineering services to meet current and anticipated future requirements. The proposal will provide:

(a) major engineering services upgrades;

(b) new and refurbished working accommodation;

(c) new and refurbished training and maintenance facilities;

(d) security upgrades;

(e) a new air traffic control complex;

(f) new commercial, community and chapel facilities;

(g) a new firing range;

(h) new living-in accommodation; and

(i) demolition of redundant facilities at RAAF Base East Sale.

The capital investment in the project will have economic benefits for the Victorian region and the local industry, with significant opportunities for subcontractors and the construction industry over the next three years.

In its report, the Public Works Committee has recommended that these works proceed. Subject to parliamentary approval, construction is scheduled to commence in late 2012 and is planned to be completed by mid to late 2015. On behalf of the government, I would like to thank the committee for its support, and I commend the motion to the House.

Question agreed to.