Legislative Council, Thursday 20 June 2024

With regard to the announced inquiry into the proposed Macquarie Point Stadium by economist Dr. Nicholas Gruen:

(1) Has a contract been signed in respect of this agreement?

(2) Who are parties to the agreement?

(3) What Terms of Reference has Dr Gruen being provided to prepare his report?

(4) To whom and when will Dr Gruen report?

(5) Will the report be completed in time for Saul Eslake to consider in his report on State finances?

(6) Will Saul Eslake be provided with a copy of the Report?

(7) Will the report be released publicly or tabled in Parliament?

(8) What financial modelling will Dr Gruen consider in his report including and not limited to, assumptions and drivers to validate financial sustainability and valuations; and

(9) Will Dr Gruen report on the original plan proposal involving MPCD overseeing the planning and delivery of the stadium and Stadiums Tasmania becoming the owners and operators, or is Dr Gruen being asked to consider other models, such as the arrangement with Plenary Partners which has been mentioned in the media?

 
RESPONSE:
The Government welcomes the independent assessment of the financial modelling to build the Mac Point Multipurpose Precinct by Dr Nicholas Gruen.

The contract for services is between Dr Gruen and the State, per the agreement with JLN. I understand that as of 20 June 2024, the contract has not been signed however it is in final stage of negotiation Dr Gruen has already undertaken initial meetings and scoping of his work.

Dr Gruen will complete his work consistent with the Terms of Reference, which are publicly available, with the review to be completed within six months. Upon completion the report will be provided to the Department and the JLN Members. The report will subsequently be made public and tabled in Parliament, and the Government will carefully consider its recommendations and seek appropriate advice at that time to inform a response.

I am advised that the Secretary of State Growth has discussed this matter with Dr Gruen who has indicated that he has already commenced discussions of his inquiry with Mr Saul Eslake, in the context of the broader independent review into the States Finances, and will continue to do so if appropriate to both parties.