Page 6300 - Week 19 - Tuesday, 17 December 1991
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CHIEF MINISTER FOR THE AUSTRALIAN CAPITAL TERRITORY
LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTION
Question No 443
Canberra Airport - International Freight Terminal
MR HUMPHRIES - Asked the Chief Minister upon notice on 6 August 1991:
(1) What action is the Chief Minister taking to help ensure that an
international freight terminal is developed at the Canberra Airport.
(2) What are the potential social and economic benefits to Canberra of an international freight terminal.
MS FOLLETT - The Answer to the member I s question is as follows:
(1) As you are aware the Federal Airports Corporation (FAC) is currently developing proposals for establishing a major airfreight terminal at the Canberra Airport. This is an exciting proposal with the potential for substantial benefits to the Canberra community and the surrounding Region.
I understand that the FAC has undertaken preliminary work on the feasibility of establishing a wider range of commercial uses on the airport site and of developing a major air freight facility at Canberra. Early indications are that these proposals would be feasible and further detailed study is proceeding.
At this stage the Canberra FAC has not completed its detailed feasibility and other studies necessary to finalise its proposal to the national FAC Board. I have asked the South East Economic Development Council to pursue this opportunity as it offers much to Canberra and the Region. The Council has included the establishment of the air freight facility as one of the recommendations in its South East Economic Development Strategy.
My government is prepared to actively consider a proposal to upgrade the Canberra Airport for international freight transport. This consideration will examine the costs and benefits associated with such a terminal and provide the opportunity for public consultation.
(2) While specific social and economic benefits will depend on a detailed FAC proposal it is expected that benefits could include new jobs, expanded business opportunities, and lower transport costs malting business in the Region more competitive.
Also the South East Economic Development Council has identified the establishment of international airfreight facilities as an important objective for the long term economic development of the Canberra Region.
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