Public Works Committee presents Report 5/2026

TODAY, Tony Zappia MP, Chair of the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Public Works presented the Public Works Committee’s fifth report of 2026 to the House of Representatives.

Report 5/2026 – Referrals made in March 2026 considers two proposed major works:

• Australian Federal Police — Proposed Fitout of Leased Premises, 949 Ann Street, Brisbane;
• Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation—Upgrade and Fitout of Building 302 Research Way, Clayton, Victoria.

The Australian Federal Police is seeking approval from the Parliament to fit-out their leased premises at 949 Ann St, which will be the site of their Northern Command, consolidating its two Brisbane offices and the Australian Centre for Countering Child Exploitation at an estimated cost of $89.3 million.

The Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO) is seeking approval to upgrade and fit-out Building 302, Research Way at its existing Clayton site, replacing the CSIRO Aspendale site as the primary location of the climate, ocean and atmospheric research teams at an estimated cost of $18.27 million.

The committee received submissions, and undertook site inspections, received private briefings, and conducted public and private hearings in Melbourne. The committee had the opportunity to visit CSIRO Aspendale and AFP Southern Command, which recently underwent a fit-out similar to what will be carried out at AFP Northern Command.

The committee has recommended that the House of Representatives approve the proposed works. Mr Zappia said, "Both projects provide these agencies with the necessary fit-for-purpose technical facilities and accommodation required for their respective work in advancing Australia’s security and prosperity."

Note: the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Public Works is not involved in the tendering process, awarding of contracts or details of the proposed works. Enquiries on these matters should be directed to the relevant Commonwealth entities.

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