PUBLIC WORKS COMMITTEE TO CONSIDER NEW FACILITIES AT Simpson Barracks, Watsonia, VIC AND OTHER DEFENCE BASES

The Parliamentary Secretary for Defence Support, the Hon. Dr Mike Kelly AM MP, and the Member for Jagajaga, the Hon. Jenny Macklin MP, today announced around $19 million for facilities at Simpson Barracks, Watsonia.

This is 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 Enhanced Land Force Initiative,” Dr Kelly said.

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

The proposed works involve the provision of training facilities, and associated infrastructure.

“I welcome this substantial investment in the Barrack’s facilities, which will lead to job creation and improved facilities for our defence force,” Ms Macklin said.

“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.

Further Information: 

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