Military Training at Shoalwater Bay Training Area

Military Training Information

Over the past few years there have been some passionate comments regarding the use of the Shoalwater Bay Training Area (SWBTA) for military exercises. To any observer of the many comments on the topic, one point has stood out - that Shoalwater Bay must be protected. Defence, as custodian and primary user of the site strongly agrees.
For over 40 years now the Shoalwater Bay Training Area has provided the Australian Defence Force (ADF) with an ideal location to conduct military training exercises and is an important asset for Defence. This wonderful environment enables our service men and women to practice in a controlled area the demanding and vital skills they require for a range of operations - including combat, peace enforcement, peace keeping and humanitarian assistance. Having controlled set training areas ensures the safety of everyone. As such, the Australian Defence Force is committed to protecting and preserving the Shoalwater Bay environment through responsible use and proactive environmental management.

The Australian Defence Force also wants to be a good neighbour and to conduct these training exercises with minimal reduction of amenity to the adjacent community. More than this, the Australian Defence Force is proud that it positively contributes to the economic wellbeing of Central Queensland, which in turn generates benefits for all the community to enjoy.

With the announcement that Shoalwater Bay Training Area is to be included as part of a Joint Combined Training Capability there has been some speculation by sections of the community around the use of the training area and the impact that it will have on surrounding communities.

The following information is provided so the community can evaluate for itself how military exercises, conducted as part of the Joint Combined Training Capability may affect them. Please click on the topics that interest you.