D-Day looms for Federal government over Burnie Courts Complex funding

The Tasmanian government has put pressure on the Commonwealth to hand over funding for the development of a northern courts complex, a project they have already committed $86.5 million towards.

Attorney-General Guy Barnett in front of where the new Burnie Court Complex will be. Picture: Supplied.

Discussions are continuing between the Commonwealth and the state government around the Burnie Courts Complex as the deadline day for funding looms.

The Tasmanian Government has told the Commonwealth that it requires a formal funding commitment to the project by February 29.

The state government has requested that the Commonwealth put forward $15 million to include Federal Court facilities at the site.

The Burnie Court Complex is set to be located at 100-106 Wilson Street, with the state government committing $86.5 million for the project.

The tender application process for the construction of the complex has opened.

The current Burnie Supreme and Magisterial Courts.

The site for the new court was originally the old Cradle Coast Campus on Mooreville Road in suburban Burnie.

However, the state government decided to move the Burnie Courts Complex into the CBD following considerable public backlash.

Tasmanian Attorney-General Guy Barnett said the project was on track, and there were no delays.

“I have written to the Federal Attorney-General, Mark Dreyfus, to inform him the Tasmanian Government requires a formal commitment to the project from the Federal Government by 29 February, 2024,” he said.

“I have also spoken to him recently about the issue.

“Those discussions have been positive, and I look forward to the Federal Government making a formal commitment shortly to ensure the Federal Circuit and Family Law Court of Australia has a suitable, fit-for-purpose, and permanent home in Burnie.

“This $86.5 million project will help revitalise the Burnie CBD, and deliver jobs and investment for the North-West, with local businesses to benefit from increased trade both during construction and ongoing into the future.

“The Rockliff Liberal Government will continue to work closely with the Burnie community to ensure these local court facilities meet the needs of a modern justice system, while ensuring the Burnie CBD remains a vibrant driver for the community and local economy.”

A spokesperson for Mr Dreyfus said the Commonwealth had been in discussions with the Tasmanian government.