The Victorian government transferred the 2.6‑hectare Jacksons Hill site, encompassing three heritage‐listed former asylum buildings, to Channel Nine for A$1 million on 15 September 2024. The price equates to roughly A$38 per square metre, a figure that has sparked debate over market value and heritage costs.
MP David Ettershank raised the transaction in Parliament on 22 September, demanding a full disclosure of the independent valuation and questioning the choice to bypass an open competitive sale. He argued that other bidders were not given an opportunity to present offers, a point that undercuts the claim of market fairness.
Housing Minister Nick Staikos replied on 2 October that the exemption from the usual public sale process was justified by years of failed attempts to secure a viable use for the land. He cited the Department of Transport and Planning’s statement that independent valuer‑general‑certified figures underpinned the A$1 million price.
Channel Nine’s proposal, submitted in September, plans to convert the historic structures into six residential units, a project that will require extensive heritage‑conservation work. The developer has submitted assessment plans to the Victorian Heritage Register, which will scrutinise the feasibility of the conversion against preservation standards.
The sale has ignited a broader discussion about how public heritage assets should be leveraged. Proponents claim the project will prevent further deterioration and attract investment, while critics worry that a private television production is not the most transparent use of state land.
The state government has pledged to publish a full audit of the valuation process on 15 October, a move that follows the MP’s demand for transparency and seeks to quell ongoing public criticism.