Albanese Government invests in Defence infrastructure for Townsville

The Albanese Government is investing approximately $35 million in critical infrastructure to support Australia’s air and land combat capabilities in North Queensland’s Lavarack Barracks and RAAF Base Townsville.

Improving the ability of the Australian Defence Force (ADF) to operate from Australia’s northern bases was a key priority identified by the Government in response to the Defence Strategic Review.

This investment will ensure Townsville’s Defence bases are equipped with modern, fit-for-purpose facilities and infrastructure to support critical capabilities in our nation’s north, while also securing hundreds of local jobs.

Approximately $16 million will be invested in RAAF Base Townsville including refurbishments to Hangar 75, which houses critical air capabilities.

This builds on the $700 million the Albanese Government is investing in RAAF Townsville to support the Australian Army’s new AH-64E Apache helicopters, where they will be based from 2025.

Australia’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.

Works have already begun and at their peak are expected to create more than 600 jobs in North Queensland, providing significant opportunities for local trades, construction and other businesses.

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

“The Defence Strategic Review made clear that in the current strategic circumstances, the Australian Army and Air Force must be optimised to support operations in the north.

“The Albanese Government is committed to ensuring we deliver the necessary upgrades to Australia’s network of northern bases, which is critical to the capacity of our Defence Force to keep Australians safe.

“These projects, to be delivered by local businesses, will create opportunities in the trades and construction industries and deliver more than 600 jobs in North Queensland.