Government to explore co-located, multi-purpose space and location bidding for potential SBS relocation
The federal government has revealed further detail of the feasibility study into SBS’s possible move to Western Sydney, and has also formed a steering committee to oversee the study.
The Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development, Communications and the Arts will lead the feasibility study to examine the business case, benefits and costs of relocating SBS’s facilities from its present site in Artarmon; assess the benefits of providing a co-located multi-purpose space for content creation and public use; and incorporate a competitive bidding process between local government areas to choose a relocation site.
SBS’s Artarmon office
The government also revealed the members of the steering committee to oversee the study, led by its chair, the former Secretary of the then-federal Communications and the Arts and Infrastructure Departments Mike Mrdak.
Joining Mrdak are Australian National Maritime Museum director and chief executive Daryl Karp, Vecor Technologies CEO Mark Ramsey, SBS managing director James Taylor and Pauline Sullivan from the Department of Infrastructure. The members have been appointed until 31 August 2024.
“The Terms of Reference and Steering Committee announced today will provide strong governance, expertise and leadership to explore whether a possible move of SBS to Western Sydney stacks up,” federal minister for communications Michelle Rowland said.
“While a number of parties have already indicated they are interested in lodging an expression of interest for hosting SBS in Western Sydney, it’s important that all relevant factors are identified and considered.”
The study is anticipated to be completed with a preliminary finding sometime in “late 2023”. If the relocation is found feasible, a public expression of interest process is expected to start in late 2023 to early 2024, with results expected in 2024.
Rowland added: “Having the right mix of independent experts with leadership, infrastructure, finance, property and broadcasting expertise on the Steering Committee is critical to ensuring the project is well-managed.”
“Their insight and findings will ensure SBS Board and Government decision-making is well-informed and I look forward to receiving the preliminary findings of the feasibility study later this year.”
SBS managing director James Taylor
In an internal memo, Taylor told SBS employees: “SBS is participating constructively in this process and seeking an outcome that best enables us to deliver services in line with our Charter and in the interests of our audiences across Australia. As the Minister has noted, any decision on relocation will ultimately be one for the SBS Board.
“I appreciate that for some of you who have made significant choices based on our Artarmon location, this process may feel unsettling. Conversely, there may be others who feel the project could lead to an opportunity to work closer to home, family or childcare.
“We will be approaching this project constructively, maintain an open mind and will of course keep you updated. SBS is nothing without our people, and there will be consultation with you as this project progresses.”
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