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The Hon Michael McCormack MP
Minister for Veterans' Affairs
Minister for Defence Personnel
Minister Assisting the Prime Minister for the Centenary of ANZAC
Media contact
- Ruby Cameron (Minister McCormack’s office) – 0455 091 557
- Defence Media – (02) 6127 1999
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26 April 2016
A refurbishment program will be undertaken and upgrades made to the existing houses at Seaward Village Assistant Minister for Defence Michael McCormack MP and Minister for Foreign Affairs Julie Bishop MP announced today.
An independent review into Defence Housing Australia’s proposed redevelopment of Seaward Village was announced last November following concerns being raised by residents and the local community.
The review, conducted by Lieutenant General (Retired) Mark Evans AO, DSC examined the proposed redevelopment and evaluated a long-term housing solution for Campbell Barracks.
“Lieutenant General Evans has undertaken a comprehensive review into the proposed redevelopment and examined a range of issues which have been raised through consultation with stakeholders and the local community,” Mr McCormack said.
“The report recommends the refurbishment option should be pursued rather than the knockdown and rebuild redevelopment proposal Defence Housing Australia has proposed. After careful consideration I have accepted this recommendation.”
Minister for Foreign Affairs and Federal Member for Curtin Julie Bishop said the review received a wide range of submissions from community groups, Defence personnel, family members and other stakeholders.
“Community concerns have been voiced with 85 submissions made to the review of the redevelopment proposal for Seaward Village,” Ms Bishop said.
“Today’s announcement reflects the views of the local community and will maintain the connection between Seaward Village and Campbell Barracks, while also meeting the needs of Defence, Defence families and Swanbourne residents.
“Our priority is the security and welfare of the Defence members and their families living in Seaward Village who make an important contribution to our ADF capability.”
Defence Housing Australia will now begin planning an upgrade program of the residences ensuring quality, long-term and sustainable housing for Australian Defence Force members and their families.
A redacted copy of the Report on Review of Proposed Redevelopment of Seaward Village is available on the Assistant Minister for Defence’s website.
Media contacts:
Rachel Obradovic (Ms Bishop) 0478 488 874
Ruby Cameron (Mr McCormack) 0455 091 557