The Australian Government is investing approximately $35 million in critical infrastructure upgrades to support Australia's air and land combat capabilities in North Queensland's Lavarack Barracks and RAAF Base Townsville.
Ensuring the Australian Defence Force (ADF) has modern, fit-for-purpose facilities and infrastructure in place to support its critical capabilities is essential to keeping Australians safe.
Defence's largest Army base, Lavarack Barracks, will benefit from an investment of over $19 million in upgrades to critical capability infrastructure including a new military working dog facility, training yard, dog obstacle course and messing facilities.
Almost $16 million will be invested in RAAF Base Townsville including refurbishments to Hangar 75, supporting critical air capabilities and operations involving both Australian and foreign military aircraft.
Upgrades will support the Government's implementation of the Defence Strategic Review by strengthening Australia's northern bases. Defence is focusing on projects across Queensland, Northern Territory and Western Australia including upgrades to airfields, working accommodation, critical communication stations and training areas.
Works have already begun and will create more than 600 jobs in North Queensland, providing significant opportunities for local trades, construction and other businesses, including promoting the participation of Indigenous companies.
Quotes attributable to Assistant Minister for Defence, the Hon Matt Thistlethwaite MP:
"The Australian Government recognises that our Defence sites must be equipped to meet operational and capability requirements, now and in the future.
"These projects, to be delivered by local businesses, will create opportunities in the trades and construction industries and deliver more than 600 jobs.
"We will continue to invest in foundational estate and infrastructure, which is critical to the capacity of our Defence Force to keep Australians safe."
