Bec Thomas MLC, Interview with Leon Compton, ABC Radio Mornings regarding Wilkinson's Point.

Описание: Full media release:

Wilkinson’s Point revelations reinforce MLCs long-standing concerns
about process and transparency

Independent Member for Elwick, Bec Thomas MLC, today reiterated her call for the sale of Wilkinsons Point to be stopped until the State Government can demonstrate that a legitimate disposal process has been followed and is in the best interests of Tasmanians.

She said today’s media coverage confirms why she has consistently raised concerns about the proposed sale of public land at Wilkinsons Point, having asked questions in February last year after the Premier publicly announced the Government had agreed to sell the Crown Land to the LK Group, despite the deal not being finalised.

“The Premier’s statement created the clear impression for Tasmanians that this was a done deal, when in actual fact it was not,” Ms Thomas said.
“When I subsequently sought a formal briefing, the Secretary of the Department of State Growth, Craig Limkin, assured me the proposal was being progressed through a legitimate pathway – the Government’s unsolicited proposal process.

“However, the Auditor-General later found that not even the very first step of that process – consultation with the Coordinator-General – had been followed, and further questioning revealed that parties were yet to agree on a masterplan for the site.”

Ms Thomas said these findings align with concerns she has repeatedly raised in Parliament over the past year about the absence of due process, transparency and governance.

“I have consistently said the Government should not proceed with any sale of Wilkinson’s Point until it can demonstrate that a legitimate land disposal process has been followed and that the proposal is clearly in the best interests of Tasmanians.

“The Auditor-General’s report highlighted serious shortcomings, including the absence of a business case, inadequate assessment of risks, and failure to follow due process and advice.”

Ms Thomas said today’s reporting, alongside those findings, raises serious questions about how this matter has been handled.

“Is this incompetence, secrecy, or a combination of both?
“Tasmanians deserve better from both their elected leaders and the highly paid state service executives entrusted with managing public assets.”

Ms Thomas reiterated she is not opposed to the appropriate development of Wilkinson’s Point, which has real potential to be an economic and social boon for Glenorchy community and Greater Hobart.

“I support the development of Wilkinson’s Point, but it is valuable public land. Decisions about its future must be made lawfully and transparently – not through shortcuts or secrecy.

Ms Thomas said she will again write to the Premier asking that he immediately:
1. Release the key advice that informed Cabinet’s approach to Wilkinson’s Point, including advice about risks, liabilities, and projected costs to Government;
2. Confirm the current status of the legislated land sale process, including whether a master plan has been agreed and whether any sale documentation exists; and
3. Pause negotiations until the public can be assured the proposed sale and its terms are legally sound and demonstrably in the public interest.
“I once again call on the Premier to release the key advice underpinning this proposal, confirm the current status of the legislated land sale process, and clarify whether any agreement or draft agreement exists.
“Tasmanians have seen what happens when major deals are stitched up without transparency. Wilkinson’s Point must not become another example of Government secrecy, blurred accountability, and taxpayer risk.
“Until the Government can demonstrate that proper process has been followed, negotiations should be paused,” Ms Thomas said.