COMMITTEES

Dr LEIGH (Fenner—Assistant Minister for Productivity, Competition, Charities and Treasury) (09:54): 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: Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation—Black Mountain Greenhouse Redevelopment.

The Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation seeks approval from the parliament to replace critical greenhouse infrastructure at Black Mountain in the ACT that was damaged during a hailstorm in January 2020. The project will provide new and refurbished greenhouses with supporting facilities to replace the greenhouse infrastructure and capability damaged by the hailstorm.

The new facilities will support the organisation to undertake research and development for government and industry across agriculture, biodiversity, environment and biosecurity. The estimated total cost of the works is $37.9 million, excluding GST. The proposed works were referred to the Public Works Committee on 2 September 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, construction is expected to commence in April 2026 and be completed by August 2028. 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.