Senator the Hon. Robert Hill,
Minister for Defence
Leader of the Government in the Senate

BUDGET 2005-06

DEFENCE CAPITAL PROJECTS WORTH $240 MILLION

Defence will carry out $240 million worth of approved Defence infrastructure projects this financial year which deliver increased capability and support to the Australian Defence Force.

Defence Minister Robert Hill said Defence bases around the country are being redeveloped and upgraded to ensure ADF personnel have the best possible facilities.

Spending in 2005-06 includes:

• $50 million for specialised ranges and training facilities to support Special Forces units based at Holsworthy, Sydney. Key elements scheduled for 2005-06 include construction of ranges and supporting infrastructure. The total project cost is $79.6 million;
• $31.8 million for new facilities for the 1^st Aviation Regiment at Robertson Barracks, Darwin including purpose-built working, training and domestic accommodation facilities. Key elements scheduled for 2005-06 include the completion of all building works packages already under construction. The total project cost is $82.0 million;
• $27.5 million for a range of new and redeveloped facilities and infrastructure necessary for the introduction into service of the Airborne Early Warning and Control capability at RAAF Williamtown. Key elements scheduled for 2005-06 include 2 Squadron hangar, pavement and airfield works and engineering services. The total project cost is $129.2 million;
• $20.0 million to relocate the Defence Science and Technology Organisation from Maribyrnong to Fishermans Bend including the construction of enhanced research and laboratory facilities. Key elements scheduled for 2005-06 include commencing construction of a conference centre and further construction work on the main facilities. The total project cost is $106.2 million; and
• $6.5 million for Lavarack Barracks Redevelopment Stage 3 which will provide new working facilities for Army units at Lavarack Barracks to replace existing ones. All Stage 3 works will be completed by August 2005. The total project cost is $171.2 million. The Government will also continue its commitment to fast track the Stage 4 redevelopment of Lavarack Barracks in Townsville. Under Stage 4, key projects being considered include upgraded working accommodation for armoured mobility, combat engineering, artillery and other elements that support 3^rd Brigade operations.

The Australian Government will meet its promise of an extra $300.0 million over three years from 2005-06 for a new maintenance programme for Defence properties.

"The extra money will be spent on maintaining Defence's extensive base infrastructure, including airfields, naval bases, barracks, training ranges, cadet facilities and fuel farms. Funds will also be used to meet environmental and occupational health and safety regulatory requirements. The program of estate upkeep works will be developed each year with projects focussing on the areas of highest priorities."

Examples of works to be undertaken in 2005-06 include:

• The improvement of emergency power supply at the Russell Defence complex in the Australian Capital Territory;
• Repairs to aircraft shelters at RAAF Base Williamtown in New South Wales;
• Upgrading the fuel storage facilities at Cowley Beach Training Area in Queensland;
• The provision of improved working accommodation for the Army Financial Services Unit at Larrakeyah Barracks in Darwin;
• The installation of air-conditioning in soldiers' living accommodation at Albury-Wodonga;
• Repairs and maintenance of heritage buildings at Fort Queenscliff in Victoria;
• Upgrade of the water supply pipeline to Woomera in South Australia;
• Refurbishment of the medical centre at Oakey in Queensland;
• The replacement of the fire extinguishing system at HMAS WATSON in Sydney;
• Repairs to the senior sailor's mess at HMAS ALBATROSS in New South Wales;
• Corrosion treatment of flight-line aircraft shelters at RAAF Base Pearce in Western Australia; and
• Upgrade roads for driver training courses in the Buckland training area in Tasmania.

Media contacts:
Sascha Meldrum (Senator Hill) 02 6277 7800 0409 034 241
Defence Media Liaison 02 6265 3343 0408 498 664

Receive media releases automatically via email. Register your address here