Ms TIERNEY (Western Victoria) — My adjournment matter is for the attention of the Minister for the Arts, and it relates to the coalition government’s $30 million promise to rejuvenate the Geelong arts precinct. That commitment comprised $15 million for GPAC (Geelong Performing Arts Centre) and another $15 million for the Geelong central library. However, it was revealed in the Geelong Advertiser just days after the coalition won office that only half of this funding commitment would be honoured in this term of government, with the other half being made available only if the coalition is voted in for a second term of government.
It is my understanding that the coalition has not confirmed whether it will honour the $30 million commitment made before the election. I take this opportunity to voice my support and push for certainty on this matter. I ask the minister to come clean with the people of Geelong. Geelong is the second-largest city in the state. It has a rich cultural history with amazing artists that deserve an upgraded facility.
I ask the minister to put a stop to the uncertainty, speculation and guesswork about Geelong’s art precinct and the library and announce whether the $30 million promised by the coalition leading up to the election will be delivered in this term of government.
Honourable members interjecting.
Ms TIERNEY — That shows you never visit GPAC, because we have refurbished the entire theatrette.