Public Works Project P0004 - Defence Airfield Maintenance Works at RAAF Bases Amberley, Townsville, Darwin and Williamtown

Overview

The Public Works Committee Act 1969 was enacted to provide a framework for the effective and efficient execution of public works by the Commonwealth and its authorities. The Act was designed to address the need for oversight and management of significant public works projects to ensure they are carried out in a manner that is both economical and effective. The enactment of this legislation was intended to bridge the gap in the systematic handling of large-scale public works projects, which previously may have lacked adequate oversight and coordination. The policy objective of the Act is to facilitate the efficient execution of public works through the establishment of a committee responsible for reviewing and approving major projects. The Special Minister of State, Gary Gray, has declared that the Defence Airfield Maintenance Works at RAAF Bases Amberley, Townsville, Darwin, and Williamtown are repetitive works under sub-section 18(8A) of the Act, thus ensuring they are subject to the established guidelines and review processes for similar projects.

Scope and Application

The Public Works Committee Act 1969 applies to projects carried out by the Commonwealth government or authorities to which the Act extends, and includes the repetitive works specified under the notice. This particular notice pertains to Defence Airfield Maintenance Works at RAAF Bases Amberley, Townsville, Darwin, and Williamtown, as declared by Gary Gray, the Special Minister of State. The geographic scope of this Act is national, covering all areas within the jurisdiction of the Commonwealth of Australia. The Act governs the conduct and transactions related to public works projects and ensures they meet the standards and guidelines set forth by the legislation. There are no stated exclusions, exemptions, or thresholds in this particular notice, but the Act's application may be extended or restricted through subordinate instruments, such as regulations or guidelines issued under the authority of the Act.

Key Provisions

The Public Works Committee Act 1969 (section 18(8A)) outlines the requirements for works that are to be deemed repetitive. In this case, the Special Minister of State, Gary Gray, has declared specific defence airfield maintenance works at RAAF bases to be repetitive (Schedule). This declaration is based on the similarity of these works to other ongoing or planned works carried out by the Commonwealth or relevant authorities. The repetitive nature of these works allows for certain efficiencies and streamlined processes under the Act. The Act imposes obligations on the parties involved, requiring that repetitive works follow the established procedures and guidelines set forth in the Act. This includes ensuring that the repetitive works are managed in a way that maintains the integrity and efficiency of public works projects. The declaration by the Special Minister of State means that the specific maintenance works at the named bases are subject to these obligations, ensuring consistency and adherence to the legislative framework. Breaches of the obligations under the Public Works Committee Act 1969 can result in serious consequences. Offences under the Act can lead to both civil and criminal penalties. The specific penalties are not detailed in the provided text, but generally, non-compliance with the Act can result in fines, imprisonment, or other legal repercussions. It is essential for all parties involved in these works to understand and comply with the requirements to avoid such penalties.