Trade and Investment

In reply to Mr WHETSTONE (Chaffey) (5 July 2023). (Estimates Committee B)

The Hon. N.D. CHAMPION (Taylor—Minister for Trade and Investment, Minister for Housing and Urban Development, Minister for Planning): I have been advised:

The variance of $20.725 million comprises the following:

$0.637 million favourable revenue, primarily related to services contributed to the Department for Trade and Investment by central government agencies; and

$20.088 million underspend against expenditure.

The underspend primarily comprises:

$7.731 million for investment attraction and trade grants due to changes in timing of commitments

$5.120 million related to delays in the Thomas Foods International infrastructure project

$3.942 million for functions transferred to the Department for Industry, Innovation and Science under machinery of government; and

$1.509 million related to overseas offices, primarily due to short-term vacancies and a slower than expected return to travel and hosting events following COVID-19 interruptions.

Eligible expenditure underspends were submitted to the Department of Treasury and Finance for carryover of the budget to future years to align with expected expenditure timing.