During the last 10 to 15 years Defence capability planning has broadened its focus across the three services of the ADF to allow for improved efficiencies and synergies.
In some instances, the land, buildings and infrastructure that represent the current Defence estate are no longer positioned to best support ADF capability in today's climate, or to improve workforce retention. Furthermore, the large and ageing estate is becoming increasingly costly to maintain and operate.
In early 2003 the Government directed the Department of Defence to develop a long term strategy for the Defence Estate. This was developed through the Force Disposition Review (FDR). This review was undertaken with a focus on better aligning Defence bases to support Defence capability, enhance ADF retention and reduce the maintenance and operating costs associated with the Estate.
In mid 2005 the Government agreed to the following basing principles that will guide future Defence basing:
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• to consolidate units into fewer, larger, functionally aligned and sustainable multi-user bases;
• to cluster bases with Industry to promote knowledge sharing, innovation and to maximise the effectiveness of Industry support to Defence; and
• to site bases in areas with greater employment and educational opportunities in order to improve retention and reduce costs associated high cost city locations. |
The 2005 Defence Update commits the Department to a base rationalisation program that meets its primary goal of supporting and sustaining ADF capability and readiness, and ensuring the most cost efficient use of Defence resources. The Government also directed the Department to conduct Cost Benefit Studies at selected bases for further Government consideration.
The Force Disposition Program ( FDP ) was established to undertake the required studies at the following bases:
In the case of RAAF Richmond, Borneo Barracks and Woodside Barracks the Cost Benefit Studies will also include an assessment of the economic and social impacts at each base should the Government decide to relocate functions elsewhere, including the potential options for suitable alternative uses of the site.
Defence in conjunction with the appropriate local government authorities held a series of community meetings throughout November 2006 in the Darling Downs Region (Qld) and the Adelaide Hills Region (SA). The purpose of these community meetings was to provide interested members of the public with an opportunity to discuss and comment on the social and economic impacts of Borneo Barracks or Woodside Barracks on their surrounding region.
Any Government decision will be informed by a comprehensive analysis of each individual base with specific regard to the FDR principles, and in consultation with relevant stakeholders, including local communities, governments, councils, authorities and businesses.
If any of these bases were to close, the land would be disposed of in accordance with the Commonwealth Disposal Policy, a copy of which can be found on the Department of Finance and Administration's web site.
The Department of Defence is fully committed to ensuring the best possible advice is obtained and all options are carefully considered before any recommendation is made to the Government on the future of these bases.
