COMMITTEES

Dr LEIGH (Fenner—Assistant Minister for Productivity, Competition, Charities and Treasury) (09:56): 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—Australian Centre for Disease Preparedness—Stage 1 Part Life Refit.

The Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation seeks approval from the parliament to undertake the first stage of the proposed part-life refit at the Australian Centre for Disease Preparedness at Geelong, Victoria. The refurbishment will be delivered in two stages. Stage 1 will provide a new high-containment laboratory wing containing three main laboratory suites with a connection into the existing building via an accessway, part replacement of high-risk equipment, external services and enabling works.

Stage 2 will be the subject of a separate Parliamentary Works Committee referral. The estimated total cost of stage 1 works is $372.2 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 2026 and be completed by late 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.