Community consultation sessions will begin in Tasmania next week as part of the Albanese Government's nationwide response to the independent Defence Estate Audit.
The Audit, delivered in 2023 by Ms Jan Mason and Mr Jim Miller, undertook a comprehensive review of Australia's Defence estate - including bases, training areas and rifle ranges - to ensure it is fit-for-purpose and provides our Australian Defence Force (ADF) with the facilities and capabilities they need to keep Australian safe.
Following careful consideration of the Audit's recommendations, the Government released its response last month. Community consultation sessions have been identified as a key part of the implementation process, with local community organisations, key stakeholders and the broader public invited to provide input on the proposed divestment of 67 sites.
The consultation process will support discussions about how surplus Defence land can best deliver benefits for surrounding communities, reaffirm protections for history and heritage including through the Environment Protections and Biodiversity Conservation Act, and capture the broad range of views from the community.
Many of these Defence sites have served Australia proudly, hold great sentimental value, and are a reminder of our past sacrifices and achievements. The Government deeply understands the emotional attachment that current and former Defence personnel have to the history of our Defence Force.
That's why the Albanese Government is committed to preserving and enhancing public access to historically significant sites and collections, so Australians can continue to recognise and celebrate our proud military history.
The community consultation sessions will also provide an opportunity for the public and interested parties to better understand the Department of Finance's role in managing the divestment process.
While consultation sessions will commence in Tasmania next week, sessions in Queensland, the Northern Territory and Victoria are scheduled to take place in April. These sessions will build on ongoing, site-by-site engagement with Defence people, including cadets and reservists, which is already underway.
