Michael McCormack (Riverina, National Party, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister for Finance) Share this | Hansard source

In Blair, indeed. The Department of Defence is proposing to construct new facilities at the Royal Australian Air Force Base Amberley in Queensland to support the introduction of 10 new C-27J battlefield airlifters aircraft and support systems for the Australian Defence Force. The C-27J battlefield airlifter aircraft is replacing the Caribou aircraft which was retired from service in 2009 after a career spanning more than four decades. The flexibility of the C-27J allows it to undertake a wide range of missions, from delivering ammunition to front-line troops to undertaking aeromedical evacuation of casualties.

The Battlefield Airlifter Facilities Project will provide modern, purpose-built facilities and improved infrastructure to support the operational readiness, security and capability requirements of No. 35 Squadron. The squadron's role includes conducting airlift operations from a range of rudimentary airstrips from battlefields to humanitarian missions in remote areas. The project includes a new headquarters building, hangars, a new apron which includes high masts and airfield ground lighting, hydrant refuelling points, maintenance and deployment facilities, new training facilities, space for flight and fuselage training simulators, and associated engineering and site works. The project will also construct facilities to replace functions displaced by the battlefield airlifter operational facilities and relocate a heritage building on the base.

The government-approved budget for the Battlefield Airlifter Facilities Project is $380 million, excluding GST. This includes construction costs, escalation allowances, professional service fees, design, construction and defence contingencies and information technology equipment. Subject to parliamentary approval of the project, construction is expected to commence in early to mid 2016, with all construction completed by early to mid 2018. The project will provide opportunities for growth and jobs throughout the construction period. I commend the motion to the House, and I am sure the member for Blair, sitting opposite, will agree with me.

Question agreed to.

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