PUBLIC WORKS COMMITTEE TO CONSIDER NEW FACILITIES AT RAAF BASE AMBERLEY, IPSWICH, QLD  AND OTHER DEFENCE BASES

The Parliamentary Secretary for Defence Support, the Hon. Dr Mike Kelly AM MP, and the Member for Blair, Mr Shayne Neumann MP, today announced that around $7 million will be invested in facilities at RAAF Base Amberley, Ipswich, as part of the $1.4 billion Enhanced Land Force (ELF) Stage 2 infrastructure project that has been referred to the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Public Works for consideration.

“The project will give the Australian Defence Force modern, purpose-built facilities as part of the ELF Initiative,” Dr Kelly said.

“This initiative will increase the capacity of the land force by raising two additional infantry battle groups.”

The proposed works include new training facilities and working accommodation.

“The ELF Stage 2 project includes refurbished facilities, construction and infrastructure upgrades at Defence sites across QLD, NSW, VIC, SA and the ACT,” Dr Kelly said.

“Apart from meeting Defence capability and infrastructure needs, this project will directly contribute to job creation around Australia.”

Subject to Parliamentary clearance, the project is scheduled to commence in mid 2010 and be completed by late 2014.

Federal Member for Blair, Shayne Neumann welcomed the announcement.

“RAAF Base Amberley is the largest operational RAAF base in the country and this investment will help support local jobs and ensure the base remains an important economic driver in the Ipswich region,” Mr Neumann said.

Further details of the proposed works under the ELF program can be obtained from the Public Works Committee web site at: http://www.aph.gov.au/house/committee/pwc/enhancedlandforce/

Media contacts:

Mark Sjolander (Dr Mike Kelly):                 02 6277 4840 or 0407 102 220

Defence Media Liaison:                             02 6127 1999 or 0408 498 664