Major infrastructure project opened in Vanuatu

The newly redeveloped Cook Barracks in Port Vila has officially opened, reflecting the strong partnership between the governments of Australia and Vanuatu. 

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Defence, Richard Marles, joined Prime Minister Charlot Salwai Tabimasmas to open the upgraded barracks during his visit to Vanuatu. 

The redeveloped Cook Barracks includes new engineer and vehicle workshops, accommodation and training facilities, a fire station, chapel, medical centre and upgrades to surrounding roads and essential services. 

The Vanuatu Police Force and Vanuatu Mobile Force will operate the upgraded facilities, which will support their growing operational capabilities and provide support to the community. 

Alongside the Tiroas Barracks upgrades in Espiritu Santo Province, delivered in March 2024, the Cook Barracks redevelopment has created hundreds of jobs and provided upskilling and training certification opportunities for the ni-Vanuatu community.

Since 2021, Vanuatu and Australia have worked together to successfully redevelop the Cook and Tiroas Barracks, as part of the strong and enduring security partnership between our two nations. 

Quotes attributable to the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Defence, the Hon Richard Marles MP:

“These major projects demonstrate the importance of Australia and Vanuatu’s longstanding relationship and continuing commitment to working together.

“Australia and Vanuatu’s security is intertwined and our partnership enhances the peace, prosperity, resilience and safety of our region for future generations.”