The new unsolicited bids guidelines established by the Weatherill Government is an admission of failure from Labor over its handling of the sale of public land at Gillman last year.
On 23 December last year it was announced that the State Government had signed an agreement with Adelaide Capital Partners (ACP) to sell 400Ha of the former Multi-Function Polis site at Gillman.
This Government agreed to sell the land to ACP without offering the land via public sale.
The deal was entered into just two weeks after the State Government’s development agency, Renewal SA, had published a draft master plan for the same land.
Following the announcement of the deal four members of the Board of Renewal SA resigned.
The State Liberals supported the establishment of a Parliamentary inquiry to investigate whether Premier Weatherill and Minister Koutsantonis followed proper process and whether the deal struck was the best outcome for South Australia.
In evidence to the Committee, former Renewal SA Board Members revealed that they opposed the Gillman deal process and believe it should have gone to competitive tender.
Contrary to Mr Weatherill’s claims, other evidence to the Committee has confirmed that it was possible to conduct a competitive tender process whilst protecting the intellectual property of any bidder.
“There was a significant level of concern from the general public and from businesses about the Weatherill Labor Government’s decision to sell the Gillman land without going to public tender,” said Shadow Treasurer Rob Lucas.
“Hopefully these new guidelines will provide some certainty for businesses and industry alike.
“The State Liberals will consult with businesses and other stakeholders before determining a final position on the policy.”