Linda Reynolds (WA, Liberal Party, Minister for Defence) Share this | Hansard source

I thank Senator McDonald for that question. The Morrison government is resolutely committed to supporting Australian jobs and boosting the economy during COVID-19, and I'm so proud that defence is significantly contributing to this economic recovery. Since the beginning of COVID-19, we've been working with Australian industry to progress defence projects to both deliver essential defence capability and also to provide much needed cash flow throughout our economy.

I'm pleased to announce to the Senate that we are proceeding with all of the scheduled work under the $2.25 billion Australia-Singapore Military Training Initiative. Last month, I was delighted to announce that the Australian company CPB Contractors has been awarded a contract for works on the new defence training area in North Queensland. This $800 million investment near Greenvale will create long-term local jobs and support local industry in North Queensland. The construction workforce is expected to peak at 350, with 90 per cent of the workers drawn from the local area.

This advanced new training area will provide significant long-term local economic opportunities for North Queensland and particularly Townsville. When the Australia-Singapore Military Training Initiative reaches maturity, up to 14,000 Singapore Armed Forces personnel will train in Queensland for 18 weeks a year. This will provide enduring economic and social benefits to Queensland for at least the next 25 years.