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Thursday, 16 June 2011
Page: 6311

Mr GRAY (Brand—Special Minister of State for the Public Service and Integrity and Special Minister of State) (09:38): I move:

That, in accordance with the provisions of the Public Works Committee Act 1969, the following proposed work be referred to the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Public Works for consideration and report: Specific nutritional capability project for the Defence Science and Technology Organisation, Scottsdale, Tasmania.

The Department of Defence proposes to redevelop the Defence Science and Technology Organisation's nutritional research facility at Scottsdale in Tasmania. The DSTO Scottsdale facility is vital to maintaining the nutritional and health status of Australian troops because it provides food and feeding regimes which enhance performance. The works will include the redevelopment of food technology facilities, upgrades to existing chemistry and nutrition laboratories and improvements to site infrastructure and working areas. The redevelopment will result in a modern food science facility equipped to meet the future nutritional needs of ADF personnel. The estimated outturn cost of the proposal is $18.7 million plus GST. Subject to parliamentary approval, construction will commence late this year and be completed by late 2013. I commend the motion of the House.

Question agreed to.