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Work has begun on the $430.5 million HMAS Watson redevelopment, marking a major milestone for a project set to deliver significant benefits and hundreds of jobs for the NSW defence industry.
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Following Friday's sod-turning ceremony, construction has kicked off on a new training precinct, live-in accommodation for 236 trainees, as well as a new medical clinic.
The project also builds on existing frameworks and capabilities, ensuring HMAS Watson is able to support critical Navy training for up to 1,300 students per year.
The news comes as part of the expansion of the maritime force outlined in the 2020 Force Structure Plan, with Minister for Defence Industry Melissa Price stressing the importance of HMAS Watson to this strategic pivot.
“The base is essential to the sustainment of the current and future force, and requires an appropriate investment in its facilities and infrastructure," said Minister Price.
“This will generate opportunities for small and medium local businesses and Indigenous companies.
Minister Price also said the project demonstrated the Morrison government’s commitment to maximising opportunities for local industry involvement.
“Defence’s managing contractor, Lendlease Building, is committed to local engagement,” Minister Price said.
“They have targets to award 95 per cent of their sub-contract packages to businesses located within 60 kilometres of HMAS Watson, and to ensure at least 3 per cent of the project’s workforce is Indigenous.”
The works will be staged to ensure Navy training can continue throughout the construction period, and are scheduled for completion by early 2027. At the project's peak, about 360 construction personnel will be employed on-site.
Defence said that it is engaging with the local community by providing timely and regular updates on work activities, planned construction vehicle movements and potential disruptions through the HMAS Watson Redevelopment public website.
