Last night at Senate Estimates hearings, it was revealed that the Gilmore MP's statement that she was "Proud to announce $25 million for the Batemans Bay Arts and Aquatic Centre." was somewhat premature because at this stage, no money has been awarded by the Australian government for this project.
During the Rural & Regional Affairs & Transport committee last night, government officials revealed that the Batemans Bay Arts and Aquatic Centre project had progressed to the second stage of a two stage approvals process - in essence the program had been "shortlisted to go to second stage", and the second stage "will be the point at which we do our value for money assessment and put a recommendation to fund the projects to the minister", said Ms Marie Taylor, Executive Director, Regional Development and Local Government
Labor welcomes the project progressing to the business case stage of the Regional Growth Fund program and strongly advocates for its ultimate successful funding.
Unfortunately, however, our community knows from past experience to be sceptical of Liberal government funding 'announcements', for projects which still have to clear additional hurdles. For example, the Liberal Government's 2016 announcement of the $10 Million grant for the Regional Motorcross facility in Gilmore, ultimately did not proceed.
The requirements for the second stage are significant, and were detailed by Ms Taylor in Senate Estimates hearings:
"Okay, so as I indicated the full business case stage, all the applicants are asked to submit project management plans, which should include the scope of the project, the implementation methodology, timeframes, the budget and cost estimates for the project, and confirmation of partner contributions. We talked about the project cost being high [for the] Australian government commitment, so where is that extra money coming from, confirmation of that. Confirmation of regulatory approvals, a procurement plan, a risk management plan, an evaluation plan, and an asset maintenance and management plan. We also look for a five year cash flow for the project, Senator. We also look for evidence of what the project is going to be used for post-completion and including commitments from the users of the facility, including to maintain the facility. We are also looking for audited financial statements from the applicant and any information about previous grants that have been provided." Ms Marie Taylor told the committee.
Labor supports the Batemans Bay Aquatic and Arts Centre project, and a petition has been running for 2 years at: www.fionaphillips.com.au/batemans_bay_indoor_aquatic_centre
