Joint Media Release - Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister for Defence and Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister for Finance - $276 million to support Defence vehicle fleet

A $276 million facilities project to support the new B-vehicle fleet at Defence sites across Australia has been referred to the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Public Works.

Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister for Defence, Darren Chester, said the LAND 121 Stage 2 Unit Sustainment Facilities Project would see the main works delivered in the Townsville and Brisbane regions, with minor works being delivered in Sydney, Puckapunyal, Adelaide, Perth and Darwin.

“This a substantial investment in new facilities and equipment that will allow our world class defence force to get on with ensuring we can continue to live in a safe and secure Australia,” Mr Chester said.

“Providing facilities to ensure the longevity of the incoming vehicle fleet will assist in supporting the training, preparedness operational capability of our Defence force,” Mr Chester said.

The Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister for Finance Michael McCormack said the investment was necessary for a modern Defence force and would also provide economic benefits to local communities throughout construction.

“Subject to Parliamentary approval, this project will bring an economic stimulus to multiple locations around Australia, and expected opportunities for local sub-contractors over the next 3 years,” Mr McCormack said.

“The project to support the new B-vehicle fleet will include maintenance workshops and associated repair part stores, weighbridges, loading and inspection ramps, wash points, vehicle chelters and associatined hardstandings,” said Mr McCormack.

If approved, construction is scheduled to commence in early 2016 and is planned to be completed by late 2019.

Media contacts:

Brie Colley (Mr Chester’s office) (02) 6277 4029

Ruby Cameron (Mr McCormack’s office) (02) 6277 4725

Defence Media Operations (02) 6127 1999