The Finocchiaro CLP Government has uncovered yet another financial disaster left behind by Labor - this time, the Motocross World Championships (MXGP) track project at Hidden Valley.
Minister for Major Events Marie-Clare Boothby said Labor's reckless spending spree and failure to plan had left Territorians footing the bill.
"Before the election, Labor rushed into this for a headline, announcing just $1.65 million to build the motocross track without proper planning or budgeting," said Ms Boothby.
"The real cost is $8.15 million, five times the original estimate, with no contingencies in place. And that's just to build it. Delivering the actual event is another cost entirely.
"We were left with two choices: back out and waste millions withdrawing from a signed multi-year agreement or push ahead and find the money - money that could have funded more police, teachers, and nurses."
The tight deadline for the September 2025 event means further financial risks if wet season construction delays occur.
"Labor failed to address access requirements for the existing mud and quad racing sports at Hidden Valley, which is another $730,000 oversight linked to their $165 million Tiger Brennan Overpass project, which has blown out by more than $100 million," said Ms Boothby.
"Labor also had no consideration for the secondary emergency access that has to be built so the Betr Darwin Triple Crown Supercars event can proceed, which is scheduled for completion in June - the same month the Supercars event will be held.
"If there are any construction delays that prevent the emergency access from being completed on time, this puts the Supercars event at risk.
"To top it off, we're still not sure if this track can even be used by the community between MXGP events, which is another unknown thanks to Labor's poor planning and reckless decision making."
To fund the project, the CLP has had to redirect $6.5 million from the National Basketball League deal, yet another Labor catastrophe that thankfully wasn't signed in time before the election.
"Despite Labor's financial recklessness, we're making this event a success so it can deliver real economic benefits, boost tourism, and support the Territory's sporting community," said Ms Boothby.
"Going forward, what the CLP government won't do, is maintain the status quo of living beyond our means like the last 8 years without action, certainty and security."
The CLP will clean up Labor's uncovered $1.1 billion in unfunded project blowouts, rebuild our economy, and restore our lifestyle with responsible financial management.
