COMMITTEES

Dr LEIGH (Fenner—Assistant Minister for Competition, Charities and Treasury and Assistant Minister for Employment) (09:07): 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 Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water—Davis Station critical infrastructure works.

The Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water is proposing to undertake a program of works to sustain and renew infrastructure at Davis research station in Antarctica. The scope of works will include a new water production and main power facility, new vehicle workshop, refurbishment of trade workshops, and the decommissioning and demolition of redundant structure.

The estimated cost of the works is $251.7 million, excluding GST. The proposed works were referred to the public works committee on 6 November 2024. Following its inquiry, the committee recommended that the House of Representatives resolve that it is expedient to carry out the proposed works.

Subject to parliamentary approval, construction is expected to commence in mid-2025 and be completed in mid-2030. On behalf of the government, I would like to thank the committee for undertaking a timely inquiry. I commend the motion to the House.

Question agreed to.