Australia Sells Military Bases to Boost Defence
World
Australia is preparing to sell dozens of military sites, including iconic bases in major cities, to redirect funds toward strengthening its defence capabilities and upgrading strategic infrastructure in the north.
The Australian government plans to put 67 defence-owned properties up for sale, according to ABC. Many of these sites are either largely unused or have fallen into significant disrepair.
The list includes high-profile and historically significant locations such as the Victoria Barracks in Sydney, Brisbane and Melbourne, Spectacle Island, and the HMAS Penguin naval base in New South Wales.
Authorities estimate the sale could raise up to $1.8 billion, with proceeds earmarked to address “critical capability gaps,” expand northern military bases, and support infrastructure projects under the AUKUS defence partnership.
An audit of defence assets found that a substantial portion of the properties had “degraded beyond economically viable repair,” making continued maintenance unsustainable. Maintaining the current property portfolio was deemed no longer feasible.
Defence Minister Richard Marles said the issue of excess and outdated military property had been known for many years but became particularly acute following the 2023 Defence Strategic Review. He noted that amid “the most challenging strategic environment since World War II,” Australia must prioritise strengthening its northern and western approaches, including major upgrades to HMAS Stirling and facilities in the Northern Territory.
The list includes high-profile and historically significant locations such as the Victoria Barracks in Sydney, Brisbane and Melbourne, Spectacle Island, and the HMAS Penguin naval base in New South Wales.
Authorities estimate the sale could raise up to $1.8 billion, with proceeds earmarked to address “critical capability gaps,” expand northern military bases, and support infrastructure projects under the AUKUS defence partnership.
An audit of defence assets found that a substantial portion of the properties had “degraded beyond economically viable repair,” making continued maintenance unsustainable. Maintaining the current property portfolio was deemed no longer feasible.
Defence Minister Richard Marles said the issue of excess and outdated military property had been known for many years but became particularly acute following the 2023 Defence Strategic Review. He noted that amid “the most challenging strategic environment since World War II,” Australia must prioritise strengthening its northern and western approaches, including major upgrades to HMAS Stirling and facilities in the Northern Territory.
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