$160m Darwin RAAF base works underway

There are major changes ahead for RAAF base Darwin. Read what they are.

ADF The $160 million RAAF Base Darwin Mid-Term Refresh project has officially started Picture: Nigel Pittaway

The $160 million RAAF Base Darwin Mid-Term Refresh project has officially started.

The major capital facilities and infrastructure project is expected to be finished by mid-2027.

The upgrades will include a new high-capacity main entrance, an upgraded entrance for heavy vehicles, and upgrades to potable water, firefighting water and sewer infrastructure.

Defence says the upgrades will improve the base’s ability to support the significant number of personnel, aircraft and support elements that operate from RAAF Base Darwin during major activities and exercises.

Defence’s Director General Capital Facilities and Infrastructure, Brigadier Matthew Quinn, said the project would improve the ADF’s ability to operate from RAAF Base Darwin, “a key node in Australia’s northern network of air bases”.

“This is an important step in achieving the 2024 National Defence Strategy, which called for upgraded northern bases to enhance the ability of the Australian Defence Force to project force,” Brigadier Quinn said.

Security at the entrance to Darwin RAAF Base.

“These critical upgrades follow recent works to enhance the main runway and taxiways, improving the capacity, security and resilience of RAAF Base Darwin and ensuring the base remains fit-for-purpose into the future.”

In December 2024, Defence awarded Laing O’Rourke as the managing contractor for the delivery of the project.

Defence said the contract maximises local opportunities which is estimated to support up to 220 jobs in the region.

“The project will generate significant local economic benefit in the Darwin region and provide opportunities for local and Indigenous businesses and individuals,” Brigadier Quinn said.

The start of work coincides with the United States Department of Defence awarding a $380 million contract for strategically important upgrades to RAAF Base Darwin.

Texas company Sullivan Land Services Co (SLSCO) has been awarded the contract to construct a new aircraft parking apron and supporting facilities

Sullivan Land Services Co. is a Galveston based construction company that participates in large American government projects.

The works are part of the US Force Posture initiative to enhance security in the Asia-Pacific region.

It is understood that the contract also includes an aircraft rinse facility, aircraft wash rack, helicopter landing pads and supporting facilities as well as construction of Marine aviation logistics squadron and Marine wing support squadron facilities to support the Marine Corps Air Combat Element.

Originally published as $160m Darwin RAAF base works underway