Military training windfall

I URGE local businesses to start planning how they can tap into opportunities that will flow from the AustraliaSingapore Military Training Initiative.

I visited Singapore as part of a delegation to explore the opportunities created by the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership and the Australia Singapore Military Training Initiative.

The visit was a chance to meet relevant stakeholders on both sides of the defence agreement and provided a greater appreciation of the logistics involved in moving a small army contingent across the world.

The Socio- Economic Impact Assessment projected that over 80 per cent of the income generated through the development phase of the initiative will stay in North and Central Queensland.

As the expansion is rolled out we will see a large economic boost to regional centres. Even small family businesses will benefit when the military contingent uses local fuel stations, takeaway food shops and supermarkets.

I have seen the economic benefits when military exercises are held in Ingham and Charters Towers and when military vehicles and freight is moved between Mount Isa and Townsville.

I urge businesses interested in opportunities to register through AusTender and monitor contract information.

FRANK BEVERIDGE, Regional Development Australia

Townsville and North West Queensland.