No images? Click here UPDATE ON ECONOMIC STIMULUS PROJECTS FOR CHRISTMAS ISLANDFollowing my recent announcement of a tailored COVID-19 economic stimulus package from the Australian Government to support the Indian Ocean Territories, I am pleased to share with you the local projects that will be delivered on Christmas Island (CI) through this funding. Some $5.15 million funding for CI will see improvements to community facilities, the bringing forward of strategic power infrastructure upgrades, airport improvements, upgrades to public housing, and enhancements to Flying Fish Cove. As I have said, we understand the significant impact that Coronavirus and associated restrictions has had on tourism and the local economies. These projects will boost local employment and provide opportunities for local contractors, helping ensure that as we continue to work towards rebuilding from COVID-19 and travel restrictions are lifted, that the CI community, economy and tourism are future-proofed. It is also great that this funding will continue the delivery of action items under our Christmas Island Strategic Plan. Improving local infrastructure not only provides short-term stimulus to the CI economy and improves community facilities but also enhances the experience of visitors. The community projects are complemented by a $445,000 tourism promotion package for the Indian Ocean Territories as a region. The package will ensure that as travel restrictions are lifted, the IOT is a destination of choice in a competitive domestic market. The Administrator, through the Regional Development Organisation, will work with the local tourism associations on this project and more detail will be provided soon. I thank the WA Government for their support on the WA-IOT travel zone, which removes quarantine requirements for those who have been in the IOT or WA for the past 14 days. The shovel-ready projects funded under the Australian Government’s economic support package are listed below. Further information on contracting opportunities will be provided in coming weeks. Flying Fish Cove (FFC) landscaping works Capital works to Cove foreshore and related areas, to improve its use and amenity, informed by the FFC Landscape Master Plan and current public consultations on proposed staged works. Community-based projects identified in Christmas Island Strategic Plan Upgrade boardwalks, tourism infrastructure, improve signage for infrastructure and roads. Upgrade places of worship, in line with goals and actions under the Christmas Island Strategic Plan Repairs and refurbishment works to places of worship and cultural buildings plus signage to enhance multicultural tourism assets. Chinese Literary Association Building Staircase and deck upgrades for this high-use community facility, improvement of the safety of the building structure. Visitor Centre toilets and kitchenette upgrade Refurbishment of public and kitchen facilities, supporting local employment and tourism. Critical power projects
Water infrastructure Replacement of the pressure main to improve water supply. Airport - baggage collection enclosure Improve terminal amenity and facilities for residents and visitors, supporting the community and tourism. Enclosure of terminal extension, tiling of existing baggage collection area, installing air conditioning in Customs and waiting areas. Public Housing refurbishment Kitchens upgraded in 30 public housing units, to improve community housing. Commonwealth staff housing refurbishment Flooring and other works for staff accommodation. Media Contact: Sophie Beeton (02) 6277 4293 Hon Nola Marino MP |