15 May 2024
Reef HQ Reopening Cast Into Doubt
Federal Member for Herbert Phillip Thompson has condemned the Albanese Labor Government’s decision to not include the redevelopment of Reef HQ in last night’s Federal Budget.
The former Coalition Government allocated $80.1M for the largest coral reef aquarium in the world to be refurbished, but last year the Albanese Labor Government re-scoped the project into a full knock-down rebuild, without allocating any extra funding.
Phillip Thompson called the move to not allocate any money for one of Townsville’s key assets a disgrace.
“The original project’s scope was rejected by the Albanese Labor Government, but yet they cannot commit a cent to their own changes,” Phillip Thompson said.
“With confirmation that there is nothing in the budget, it means we have no idea when it will be rebuilt – if it ever will.
“The Albanese Labor Government is celebrating a $9B surplus but won’t back Reef HQ. It doesn’t make sense.”
The original proposal of a refurbishment was due to see visitors already walking through the new doors, but the lack of funding now leaves a cloud of uncertainty over the project.
Phillip Thompson says the fight isn’t over and will work with the community to continue to advocate for the additional funds.
“Reef HQ is a place that people travel the world to visit, experience and learn,” he said.
“This project is extremely important and has my full support. We deserve better.”
ENDS