$248.6 MILLION IN 2007-08 DEFENCE FUNDING FOR HUGHES

The strong Defence presence in Hughes is centred on the Liverpool Military Area.

The Australian Government through Defence will continue its strong support to the economy of Hughes based on a continuing significant military presence. The current military population of the electorate includes over 4,000 ADF members, Defence civilians and ADF cadets. Defence families form an integral part of the Hughes community.

The Government will continue to make an extensive financial contribution, of around $140.0 million in 2007-08, to the funding of both Defence facilities and personnel serving in Hughes. In addition in 2007-08 a further $108.6 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 New South Wales will benefit from $322.2 million in funding for 2007-08.

$208.6 million has been allocated to approved Defence facilities projects. A further $113.6 million will be spent on Defence Estate upkeep works.

Approved capital facilities projects for Hughes include:

Holsworthy – Special Forces Training Facilities

This project provides specialised ranges and training facilities to support special forces units based at Holsworthy. Key elements scheduled for completion in 2007-08, include the final fit out of the ranges with specialised target systems. Completion is scheduled for mid 2008.

Holsworthy – Special Operations Working Accommodation and Base Redevelopment Stage 1

This project provides facilities to support Special Operations Command elements including the Tactical Assault Group (East) and the Incident Response Regiment. It also includes an upgrade of the base infrastructure. Key elements scheduled for 2007-08 include working accommodation and supporting base infrastructure upgrades. Completion is scheduled for mid-2009.

Holsworthy – 171 Aviation Squadron Relocation

This project provides facilities to relocate 171 Aviation Squadron from Townsville to Holsworthy. Key elements scheduled for 2007-08 include permanent working accommodation and supporting infrastructure. Completion is scheduled for mid-2008.

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