Canberra Liberals MLA James Milligan brought forward a motion calling on the ACT Government to commission an independent audit of all sporting facilities in the Territory.
Thomas spoke in support of the motion, highlighting research that participation in physical activity facilitated by community sport infrastructure saves Australia’s health system around half a billion dollars annually. Thomas also highlighted that his supply and confidence agreement includes a commitment to deliver longer-term planning for sporting infrastructure. He raised concerns around the need for the audit to be independent, arguing that Sport and Recreation should have this capability in-house, but was supportive of the motion nonetheless.
Independent MLA Fiona Carrick moved an amendment calling for the audit to incorporate a needs assessment to analyse community demand and identify gaps in existing facilities, and to engage with community members and sporting organisations to understand their needs and priorities. The amendment also extended the deadline for the Government to table the final report in the Assembly from December 2026 to March 2027.
The motion, as amended, passed with the unanimous support of the Assembly.