The plans to purchase the Maygar Barracks site for $6million were exposed in the May 2004 Budget. Additional plans to spend $3.1million to design the facility were revealed by Labor Senators through the Senate Estimates process.
“Clearly, this proposed facility is becoming an issue in the community, yet so far, there has been no attempt by the Howard Government or Minister Vanstone to consult with the community.
“For my part, I will continue to monitor developments, however, it is important that the unfortunate negativity of such facilities doesn’t create alarm in the wider community. Regrettably, the feedback I am getting is that the absence of any consultation process is adding to community concerns.
“Members of the Broadmeadows community have many questions about this facility, yet the information is not forthcoming from the Government and this is not good enough.
“At the end of the day, we don’t want a detention centre in Broadmeadows, however given the Howard Government is intent on going ahead with the facility, it is vital that the community is involved in the consultation process and that community input is sought in regard to the design and nature of the facility.
“I will continue to make myself available should the Government offer any briefings on this matter and I would be very happy to be involved in any consultation process regarding the facility and the implications this will have for the community of Broadmeadows.
