The Tasmanian Government’s decision to sell the historic Treasury building has been met with criticism from state Labor, who have accused the Liberals of a “fire sale” to prop up their “busted budget”.
The building, located on Murray Street in the Hobart CBD, will be put on the market early next year – six years after the idea was originally floated.
Labor’s Josh Willie said the sale is only going ahead now because of a “rapidly deteriorating budget”.
“Selling off valuable government assets potentially has longer-term implications for the budget,” he said.
“If they achieve a fair value sale, any proceeds will be expended on capital costs and other relocation costs, with millions in ongoing leasing costs to house staff in the future still to pay.”
He said the government was “lurching from financial crisis to crisis”.
“The symbolism of a government considering selling their Treasury building to prop up their busted budget is a plot line straight out of a satirical comedy,” he said.
The state government say they will be seeking proposals through an Expression of Interest Process to explore investment opportunities to repurpose the building.
“We know that the buildings are not well suited to office accommodation and they present a unique opportunity for an investor to take advantage of the heritage character of the buildings and their prime location,” Treasurer Guy Barnett said.
“We have seen the amazing development at Parliament Square and the Tasman, which has not only preserved the heritage characteristics of the buildings but have made them more accessible to Tasmanians and visitors to enjoy.”
“We know that the Treasury Complex is underutilised and presents a unique opportunity for the right developer to showcase the buildings for the benefit of our economy and our community.”
The Tasmanian Chamber of Commerce & Industry said it was time the building was used “for something else”.
“The Treasury building is not fit for purpose for office-space and it’s the right time to think about repurposing it,” TCCI CEO Micheal Bailey said.
“It’s a beautiful building, but it needs to be open to the public rather than a few public servants.
“We encourage the Government to consult widely and create something that will connect Tasmanians with their history.”
