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Question and Answer Tracking Details

282 - Jobs and Tourism - LITHGOW SMALL ARMS FACTORY MUSEUM

Farraway, Sam to the Special Minister of State, Minister for Roads, Minister for the Arts, Minister for Music and the Night-time Economy, and Minister for Jobs and Tourism

My question is directed to the Minister for Jobs and Tourism. What steps has the Minister taken to address the challenges faced by the Lithgow Small Arms Factory Museum since the break-in on 25 August 2024 and when will this significant heritage site reopen to tourists?
Original Answer -

The Hon. JOHN GRAHAM (Special Minister of State, Minister for Roads, Minister for the Arts, Minister for Music and the Night-time Economy, and Minister for Jobs and Tourism) (11:46:26): I thank the member for his very good question. It is of concern. This is a small but culturally significant institution in our State. It reflects the long history, including some of the military history, of the State, which is of significance not just to Lithgow and the region, but to the State and the country. It is a place that reflects some of the history of our country at a moment when we were worried about the fate of the country altogether. I am aware of the issues. I have had representations from other members and I have met with, for example, the Hon. Robert Borsak and the agencies involved to see what assistance can be provided.

That discussion is ongoing. I am happy to obtain an update for the member. I think that would be useful. I am glad he is taking an interest in it, and I am sure he has for quite some time. I know his interest is genuine. There was a break-in and some objects were stolen. It has led to the institution being under great pressure. That is a real shame and the community is less well off as a result. There is not an immediate fix to this issue but it is under very active consideration at the moment, both by government agencies and the Government itself. I know it is of interest to members. I would be very happy to talk some more with the Hon. Sam Farraway on the issue.
Additional Answer -

The State Government is currently limited in its ability to provide assistance to Lithgow Small Arms Factory Museum to address security issues at its facilities because the site where it operates is privately owned.

I am advised that Museums & Galleries of NSW is currently providing expert advice and assisting the Lithgow Small Arms Factory Museum.

Once there is an agreed way forward between the museum and property owner on the security upgrades, the museum can explore assistance offered by NSW Government at: https://www.nsw.gov.au/grants-and-funding.

My office has been in contact with the Museum and wrote to its representative in November this year to assist where possible.

Question asked on 14 November 2024 (session 58-1)
Answer received on 5 December 2024

The Parliament of New South Wales acknowledges and respects the traditional lands of all Aboriginal people, and pays respects to all Elders past and present. We acknowledge the Gadigal people as the traditional custodians of the land on which the Parliament of New South Wales stands.