COMMITTEES

Dr LEIGH (Fenner—Assistant Minister for Productivity, Competition, Charities and Treasury) (09:38): 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: Airservices Australia—Aviation rescue fire fighting services NexGen project for the end-of-life facilities upgrades—Phase 1A (Queensland and Victoria).

Airservices is proposing works to modernise its Aviation Rescue Fire Fighting Services to meet operational requirements. The proposed works would occur in three phases over the next decade and involve the replacement of end-of-life assets. The proposed works include rebuilding fire stations, installing cold drill grounds for training purposes and refitting tender bays to accommodate new ultra-large firefighting vehicles.

The first phase of works at several locations in Queensland and Victoria has an estimated cost of $163.4 million, GST excluded. The proposed works were referred to the Standing Committee on Public Works on 31 July 2025. 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, Airservices Australia expects to approach the market as soon as possible, with works expected to be completed by July 2027. On behalf of the government, I would like to thank the committee, ably chaired by the member for Makin, for undertaking a timely inquiry. I commend the motion to the House.

Question agreed to.