Melbourne to push Ecclestone for better race deal

Organizers of the Australian Grand Prix are aiming for a lowered race fee when the event’s current contract comes to an end in 2015. Since 1996, there has been constant pressure applied from environmental campaigners and, in particular, taxpayers.

This year, the state government of Victoria contributed to 56.7 million Australian dollars (£36.3m) to ensure that the race remained on the streets of Albert Park, which since its debut has hosted the season-opening Grand Prix in all years bar two.

“My aim is to negotiate something that will cost the taxpayer less," Major Events Minister Louise Asher told the Australian press, without mentioning a figure.