The premier’s office then issued a press release on Sunday quoting Perrottet and outlining the $25 million price tag. Twenty-four hours later,Perrottet said the price “doesn’t seem to pass the pub test”.
Treasurer Matt Kean said the premier had now instructed Transport for NSW,the department responsible for the work,to reassess the cost.
The premier in February announced a third flagpole would be installed on the Sydney landmark to fly the Aboriginal flag permanently,saying it was an important step toward reconciliation.
Kean said while it was important that taxpayers got value for money,the Aboriginal flag needed to fly permanently atop the Harbour Bridge.
Consultation with experts over the bridge’s heritage,and even aviation authorities regarding the placement of an aircraft beacon,are among work underway to install a third flagpole,with contingencies also pushing up the estimated price.
Kean said all three flagpoles needed to be replaced as part of the work on the bridge,which was also one of the city’s busiest roads.
“The Aboriginal flag should be flying atop of the Harbour Bridge for everyone to see,” he said.