21 May 2008
AFP TO MOVE INTO NEW HEADQUARTERS
The Australian Federal Police (AFP) will move into new headquarters in the Edmund Barton Building in Canberra's Parliamentary precinct, the Minister for Home Affairs Bob Debus announced today.
"The AFP has more than doubled in size in the past decade, placing tremendous pressure on its existing accommodation arrangements, so the move to the Edmund Barton Building is very timely," Mr Debus said.
"The new headquarters will accommodate about 2,200 staff, consolidating six existing offices, including the current headquarters in Civic.”
Mr Debus said the AFP and Stockland, the owner of the Edmund Barton Building, were finalising an agreement for a long term lease over the next few weeks.
"I expect Stockland’s work on refurbishing the Edmund Barton Building to begin almost immediately and for the AFP to be ready to occupy by late 2009.
“The AFP and Stockland will refurbish the building to achieve quality standards including “A Grade” office accommodation and an Australian Building Greenhouse Rating of 4.5 stars.”
The heritage-listed building, designed by Harry Seidler and built in the 1970s, also has the advantage of being situated near other key government agencies such as the Attorney-General's Department and Prime Minister and Cabinet.
The AFP is currently developing the design and documentation for the fit out works to be referred to the Public Works Committee.
Mr Debus will visit the Edmund Barton Building this morning and the media is invited to attend.
Media Contact: Samantha Wills 0448721372.