$263.0 MILLION IN 2007-08 DEFENCE FUNDING FOR BLAIR

The strong Defence presence in Blair includes a range of both Army and Air Force units in and around the major centre of RAAF Amberley.

The Australian Government through Defence will continue its strong support to the economy of Blair based on a continuing significant military presence. The current military population of the electorate includes over 2,600 ADF members, Defence civilians and ADF cadets. Defence families form an integral part of the Blair community.

The Government will continue to make an extensive financial contribution, of around $200.0 million in 2007-08, to the funding of both Defence facilities and personnel serving in Blair. In addition in 2007-08 a further $63.0 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.

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 Queensland will benefit from $239.5 million in funding for 2007-08.

$161.9 million has been allocated to approved Defence facilities projects. A further $77.6 million will be spent on Defence Estate upkeep works.

Approved capital facilities projects for Blair include:

Amberley – RAAF Amberley Redevelopment Stage 2

This project provides new facilities to support the relocation of 9th Force Support Battalion, the Multi Role Tanker Transport to RAAF Amberley, and an upgrade of the base's trunk engineering services. The works to support the relocation of 9th Force Support Battalion include workshops, administration buildings, hardstands and vehicle shelters. The works for the multi-role tanker transport aircraft include construction of administration buildings, airfield pavement upgrades, maintenance facilities and the provision of hydrant refuelling. The engineering services works will include refurbishment and upgrading of the electrical reticulation, trunk communications, water, stormwater, and sewerage infrastructure. Construction commenced in March 2006. All key facilities are expected to be completed in late 2007.

Significant additional expenditure is expected to be announced during the year as further projects are considered for approval, including RAAF Amberley Redevelopment Stage 3.

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