New ADF plan fine, according to Minister

A DEFENCE master plan has found existing training areas near Townsville and in Shoalwater Bay are operating at capacity and more land is required to accommodate both the Australian Defence Force and Singapore Armed Forces.

But the Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to only acquire land from willing sellers after months of backlash and protests from north and central Queensland graziers.

The Department of Defence this week announced it had finalised its master planning for upgrades to the Shoalwater Bay and Townsville Field Training Areas.

Following the initial round of consultation with local landowners, the master planning found that Defence can meet the future training needs of the ADF and the increased training with the Singapore Armed Forces through the purchase of land from willing sellers.

Defence Minister Marise Payne said the master planning had produced a viable option that struck a balance between Defence’s needs and national considerations.

“The approach outlined in the master plan will deliver significant improvements for the Australian Defence Force, enable us to fulfil our agreement with Singapore, and drive much- needed investment in central and North Queensland,” Minister Payne said.

“Importantly, as a result of the master planning process Defence has significantly reduced the scope of the training area expansion that is needed.”

Chief of Army Lieutenant General Angus Campbell said the expansion and enhancement of the two training areas was vital for Defence.

“The Australian Defence Force is engaged in a major modernisation program that will see significant new capabilities and platforms coming online over the next decade,” he said. “This training will help ensure the Australian Defence Force remains potent, mobile and effective.”

A spokesman for Ms Payne said Defence could not identify the location of willing sellers as they had asked for privacy.

Defence officials will be in Townsville and Rockhampton regions from Monday.