Login
iscover
Defence Industry Minister Melissa Price has announced that the $389 million redevelopment of HMAS Watson will begin in weeks following the contract award to Lendlease.
To continue reading the rest of this article, please log in.
Create free account to get unlimited news articles and more!
The major upgrades will deliver new and improved training facilities for sailors at HMAS Watson, Navy’s principal warfare and navigation training establishment.
The aim of the HMAS Watson redevelopment is to address functionality deficiencies and capacity constraints in facilities and infrastructure at HMAS Watson, which support demand levels greater than what they were originally designed for.
Defence Industry Minister Melissa Price said, “This investment ensures HMAS Watson will support training for over 1,300 students each year. A new training precinct, new living-in accommodation for at least 236 trainees, a medical clinic, and upgrades to existing water, electrical and communication services, base security and galleys are all part of the project.”
The project also aims to address high-risk issues associated with non-compliant facilities and reduce ongoing operating costs by rationalising and consolidating similar functions.
“Around 360 construction personnel will be employed at the site when construction reaches its peak, and it is expected that another 10,000 personnel from the local manufacturing and transport industries will benefit,” Minister Price added.
Under the Morrison government’s Defence Policy for Industry Participation, Lendlease Building will maximise opportunities for local businesses to supply goods and services for the project.
“In line with government policy, Lendlease Building has pledged a target of awarding 95 per cent of their sub-contract packages to businesses located within 60 km of HMAS Watson,” Minister Price said.
“Not only is this project a great opportunity for local small businesses, but it is providing our hardworking sailors at HMAS Watson with new and improved facilities for their training.”
Construction is scheduled to commence in February 2020, with completion due by mid-2026.
Stephen Kuper
Steve has an extensive career across government, defence industry and advocacy, having previously worked for cabinet ministers at both Federal and State levels.
