$125.0 MILLION IN 2007-08 DEFENCE FUNDING FOR LEICHHARDT

The strong Defence presence in Leichhardt includes a wide range of Australian Defence Force units at Cairns .

The Australian Government through Defence will continue its strong support to the economy of Leichhardt based on a continuing significant military presence. The current military population of the electorate includes over 1,500 ADF members, Defence civilians and ADF cadets. Defence families make up an integral part of the Leichhardt community.

The Government will continue to make an extensive financial contribution of around $80.0 million in 2007-08, to the funding of both Defence facilities and personnel serving in Leichhardt. In addition in 2007-08 a further $45.0 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 Leichhardt include:

HMAS Cairns Redevelopment

This project provides a combination of new and refurbished facilities to accommodate a full range of operational and support functions at HMAS Cairns including appropriate berthing space and shore services for all home-ported vessels. Key elements scheduled for 2007-08 include completion of the new central building which will accommodate various command and support functions. Construction commenced in early 2007 and completion is scheduled for 2009.

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