Major milestone reached in northern bases

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The Hon Matt Thistlethwaite MP

Assistant Minister for Defence

Assistant Minister for Veterans’ Affairs

Assistant Minister for the Republic

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media@defence.gov.au

Ben Leeson on 0404 648 275

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24 July 2024

The Australian Government has enhanced its maritime capability with the official opening of the new Kuru Wharf at HMAS Coonawarra in the Northern Territory. 

The $210 million Kuru Wharf was delivered under the broader $600 million Larrakeyah Defence Precinct Redevelopment Program, and provides additional berthing capacity for naval vessels, including major surface combatants and submarines. 

The Larrakeyah Defence Precinct Redevelopment Program is also delivering other upgrades, including improvements to base engineering services such as electrical, communications, sewerage, stormwater, potable water and fire services, added accommodation, car parking and additional capacity for maritime fuel storage. 

Quotes attributable to Assistant Minister for Defence, the Hon Matt Thistlethwaite MP:

“These critical upgrades to Kuru Wharf will allow for the future growth of the Larrakeyah Defence Precinct to ensure it is equipped to meet our strategic circumstances. 

“This program of works reinforces the 2024 National Defence Strategy, which outlines critical investment into improving the ADF’s ability to operate from Australia’s northern bases. 

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