Debate on the Delivering Victorian Infrastructure (Port of Melbourne Lease Transaction) Bill 2015 has today been adjourned until 2016.
The Andrews Labor Government wants legislation to pass to maximise value and ensure the protections and safeguards in the Bill are retained.
We welcome the fact that the Opposition has committed to a timeline in passing the legislation and look forward to its passage in February when Parliament returns.
While the Government has sought to negotiate with the Coalition in good faith and will continue to do so in coming weeks, we have been unable to reach an agreement on key issues relating to the port growth regime and the port licence fee.
When in government, the Coalition had intended to implement compensation arrangements similar to the port growth regime within their proposed transaction. It had also factored in the port licence fee being paid up front.
This was reflected in the forward estimates in the 2014-15 Budget.
Both of these items are significant in maximising the value of the port lease for Victorians now and into the future.
The Government will continue to work towards delivering our commitments to lease the port, remove our 50 worst level crossings and deliver thousands of new jobs.
Quotes attributable to Treasurer Tim Pallas
“While I am disappointed that we have been unable to secure an outcome today, the Andrews Labor Government has worked hard to ensure the best possible outcome for Victorians.”
“We took this policy to the last election – as did the Opposition – and have been open and transparent with Victorians every step of the way.”
“We look forward to the Opposition sticking to their stated February timetable and respecting the mandate which we received at the last election.”
“We will continue to negotiate in good faith in coming weeks to achieve the best outcome for Victorians, and to deliver the infrastructure Victorians voted for and need.”
Reviewed 10 February 2021