Widespread Praise for Government Precinct Plan

Published Wednesday, 30 May, 2012 at 02:49 PM

Premier
The Honourable Campbell Newman

The Newman Government’s visionary plan to redevelop the Government Administrative Precinct has won support from bodies as diverse as Queensland’s union movement and the state’s property and construction sectors.

Organisations which have publicly stated their support for the redevelopment of the precinct include the BLF, CFMEU, Master Builders and the Property Council.

Premier Campbell Newman said he was pleased Queenslanders recognised the benefits that would flow from the major infrastructure project.

“The redevelopment of the Government Administrative Precinct will bring thousands of new jobs to Queensland, breathe new life into an underutilised part of Brisbane’s CBD and not cost taxpayers a cent,” he said.

“It also fits the bill in terms of the LNP’s pledge to rein in costs, as it will rationalise and consolidate government office accommodation within the city and provide longterm cost savings for taxpayers.

“I am heartened that the LNP’s plan has received strong support from a wide cross-section of Queensland organisations, including unions, and I anticipate their ongoing support for the project.”

BLF State Secretary David Hanna said the redevelopment ‘can’t happen soon enough’ (Media release, 29 May 2012) and predicted it would create thousands of much-needed jobs for Queenslanders.

The union also publicly condemned Labor’s longterm neglect of the precinct and asked for the redevelopment to be fast-tracked.

CFMEU State Secretary, Michael Ravbar welcomed the announcement, describing it as “…the boost that the flagging construction industry needs.” (Media release, 29 May 2012)

Property Council Queensland Executive Director Kathy Mac Dermott said the redevelopment would boost jobs, spark more commercial activity and improve the amenities of the precinct. (Media release, 29 May 2012)

Master Builders Executive Director Graham Cuthbert said the organisation was “…excited about the LNP’s vision for our industry and believe the announcement is the good news we desperately needed.” (Media release, 29 May 2012)

The Queensland Government Administrative Precinct area stretches from Queen Street to the Botanic Gardens, and from the river’s edge to Albert Street.

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Media Contact: Premier's Office (07) 3224 4500