Darwin military bases get healthy new look

TWO of the Top End’s key military health facilities are to get a $13.4 million overhaul

Robertson Barracks will receive an upgrade

TWO of the Top End’s key military health facilities are to get a $13.4 million overhaul.

Australia Defence has awarded the contract to Cockram Constructions Pty Ltd for the construction a new health centre at Larrakeyah Barracks and the refurbishment of the existing health centre at Robertson Barracks.

NT Senator Nigel Scullion confirmed the awarding of the contract on Tuesday.

He said it was expected most of the work would be done by local workers.

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“Cockram are estimating around 90 per cent of the workforce will come from the local Darwin region,” Mr Scullion said.

“This was a fantastic example of procurement policies working to benefit local Territory and indigenous businesses.”

Cockram Constructions anticipate up to 25 subcontract packages at Robertson Barracks, with a value of $1.1 million and up to 30 subcontract packages at Larrakeyah Barracks, with a total value of $9.3 million, will be sourced from companies within the greater Darwin region.

The upgrades are part of a $212 million Joint Health Command Garrison Health Facilities Upgrade Project which will see upgrades to Defence health centres across 13 Defence sites nationally.

Assistant Minister for Defence Senator David Fawcett said the upgrades would help support the Australian Defence Force (ADF) to maintain and sustain health preparedness for ADF for operational requirements.

“These two health centre upgrades will enhance the provision of primary care, mental health, rehabilitation, pharmacy, physiotherapy and dental services to ADF members in Darwin,” Minister Fawcett said.

“In line with the Coalition Government’s requirements to engage local companies, Cockram Constructions has developed a Local Industry Capability Plan to ensure Territory businesses, suppliers and trades are given full opportunity to be involved in the facilities construction.”