Darwin defence bases to get $24m upgrade as part of push to make facilities fit-for-purpose

Two defence facilities have received a cash injection as the federal government recommits to upgrading bases in Australia’s north.

Medical facilities at one of Australia’s northern defence bases are set to receive a major upgrade as part of $24m cash injection set to create 230 Darwin-based jobs.

Assistant Minister Matt Thistlewaite announced the funding boost for the Robertson Barracks and Howard Springs South facility in Darwin on Tuesday.

Upgrading Australia’s northern bases was a key priority identified by the government in response to last year’s defence strategic review.

About 2000 ADF personnel from the army’s 1st Brigade and 1st Aviation Regiment call Robertson Barracks home.

Mr Thistlewaite said the $22m investment would grant the personnel access to modern and fit-for-purpose medical, dental and fitness facilities.

About 230 jobs will be created as part of the upgrades. Picture: Supplied.

“The defence estate plays a critical role in supporting the operational readiness of the Australian Defence Force, and having a safe and maintained estate is integral to capability and supporting personnel who live, work and train on base,” he said.

Another $2m has been set aside for maintenance works to take place at Howard Springs South.

It comes after the federal government signed a five-year lease agreement with the NT, at a cost of $50m per year, to establish an accommodation precinct at the facility for personnel conducting operations and exercises from Darwin.

Mr Thistlethwaite said work had already begun across the four projects, creating 115 jobs on site and another 115 indirect jobs with local suppliers and contractors.

“The upgrades will be delivered by local businesses and provide a significant boost to the local economy by creating job opportunities in the construction industry,” he said.

“The Albanese government will continue to invest in foundational estate and infrastructure, which is critical to the capacity of our Defence Force to keep Australians safe.”

Originally published as Darwin defence bases to get $24m upgrade as part of push to make facilities fit-for-purpose