School Infrastructure Projects

In reply to Mr BOYER (Wright) (23 November 2020). (Estimates Committee B)

The Hon. J.A.W. GARDNER (Morialta—Minister for Education): I am advised of the following:

The budget papers provide an anticipated expenditure based on projected milestones for projects within a financial year. The projected expenditure for 2019-20 was based on anticipated programs and projected cashflows to deliver the capital program.

A number of factors impact on the difference between predicted and actual expenditure including the stage of the project. Expenditure encompasses fees for project management, architectural services and cost management services, with the bulk of budgets going towards construction expenditure. Some projects had initial projections for commencing construction late in 2019-20 but did not commence construction until the 2020-21 financial year due to extended concept and design phases for some school upgrades.

I am advised that since late 2019, the Department for Education has worked with the Department for Infrastructure and Transport to improve budget setting.

I also note that the 2019-20 revised budget for these projects in question totalled $120.5 million.