$82.0 MILLION IN 2007-08 DEFENCE FUNDING FOR FLINDERS

The Defence presence in Flinders includes a wide range of Royal Australian Navy units at HMAS Cerberus.

The Australian Government through Defence will continue its strong support to the economy of Flinders based on a continuing significant military presence.  The current military population of the electorate includes over 1,900 ADF members, Defence civilians and ADF cadets.  Defence families make up an integral part of the Flinders community.

The Government will continue to make an extensive financial contribution of around $70.0 million in 2007-08, to the funding of both Defence facilities and personnel serving in Flinders. In addition in 2007-08 a further $12.0 million will be allocated for capital facilities funding.

Valuing our Personnel:

As part of the ongoing commitment to supporting and valuing our ADF personnel and their families the following improvements will be made:

·               a modern and more flexible pay structure for other ranks;

·               a new home loans assistance package with higher subsidies and greater choice to encourage home ownership and provide for higher benefits as members serve on for longer periods;

·               creating a transition and career advice function within Defence Force Recruiting to assist those who might be considering alternative careers;

·               investment in the professional development of Defence medical officers;

·               better marketing to showcase the Navy, Army and Air Force as employers of choice;

·               the introduction of a new Defence Apprenticeship scheme to assist 16-17 year olds commence an apprenticeship and then join the ADF; and,

·               a boost to the Royal Australian Navy’s Sea Change programme.

Local cadets will benefit from an expansion and enhancement of the Defence Force Cadet scheme - giving our young people the life, leadership and employability skills valued by employers and community leaders.

Facilities:

Defence facilities in Victoria will benefit from $119.7 million in funding for 2007-08.

$49.0 million has been allocated to approved Defence facilities projects.  A further $70.7 million will be spent on Defence Estate upkeep works.

Approved capital facilities projects for Flinders include:

HMAS Cerberus – Small Arms Training Section Redevelopment

This project will redevelop the existing range facilities.  Government approved the project in January 2007.  Construction is expected to commence in mid 2007 and be complete by end 2008.