INCREASED SECURITY FOR DEFENCE PERSONNEL AND FACILITIES

The Coalition Government has committed an additional $135.4 million over four financial years to continue Operation SAFEBASE, which provides for the protection of personnel and key assets, facilities and infrastructure at Defence bases.

Enhanced security measures were introduced after the terrorist attacks in the United States on 11 September 2001, and Defence security requirements continue to be reviewed on a regular basis.

The additional funding will provide for a range of measures to continue the heightened guarding, patrolling and protective searches across Defence establishments.

This will ensure that Defence personnel can continue to work safely despite uncertainty in the current security environment. 

The $135.4 million allocated in the 2007-08 Budget brings the Government’s total commitment to enhanced protective security at Defence establishments to $322 million since the events of

11 September 2001.

Supporting Information

Why is this important?

•                The Government is committed to enhancing the security of Australia and its national interests.

•                These initiatives provide enhanced security measures for Defence personnel, facilities and infrastructure. 

Who will benefit?

•                The Australian community safe in the knowledge that large investments in key infrastructure and assets are not at risk.

•                Defence military and civilian personnel who will be provided with a safe and secure working environment.

What funding is the Government committing to the initiative?

•                A total of $135.4 million over four years, as shown below.

What have we done in the past?

•                Defence has been provided with a total of $186.6 million in prior Budgets from 2002-03 to 2006-07 for increased security measures.