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Defence ditches 64 sites in China scramble
The sale aims to raise up to $3 billion and save $100 million annually to fund upgrades at northern bases supporting AUKUS submarine operations.
- On Wednesday, the Albanese government announced it will wholly divest 64 defence sites nationwide, including Victoria Barracks, to raise nearly $2 billion for reinvestment in the military.
- The independent audit found large swathes of the 3-million-hectare defence estate were surplus or deteriorated beyond economical repair, prompting reform after the December 2023 audit and government response released this week.
- Western Australia will see Irwin Barracks, Leeuwin Barracks and regional rifle ranges join 63 other sites for divestment, with all personnel relocating to Palmer Barracks, affecting up to 1,150 reservists and about 250 cadets.
- The government says proceeds will be reinvested into the ADF and expects to cut about $100 million a year in maintenance costs, but relocation and remediation costs could reach $1.2 billion, leaving net proceeds up to $1.8 billion.
- The plan redirects money to northern bases and AUKUS support, including an $8 billion redevelopment of HMAS Stirling, and all sites will be handed to the Finance Department over coming years.
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Government considers the sale of dozens of defence sites
The government is eyeing the sale of dozens of military sites. It could unlock just under 2 billion dollars to re-reinvest in the country's defence industry. The move was part of recommendations from a sweeping independent audit, and has the potential to free up increase housing supply.
·Sydney, Australia
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Coverage Details
Total News Sources24
Leaning Left8Leaning Right4Center2Last UpdatedBias Distribution57% Left
Bias Distribution
- 57% of the sources lean Left
57% Left
L 57%
14%
R 29%
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