Defence Science and Technology Organisation

Dr Jensen asked the Minister for Defence Science and Personnel, in writing, on 13 May 2008:

In respect of the Defence Science and Technology Organisation (DSTO) facilities at its Canberra Headquarters and its research facilities in Melbourne, Edinburgh, Canberra, Brisbane, Sydney, HMAS Stirling, Scottsdale and Innisfail: does the Government intend to make any significant changes, up to and including closure; if so, for each facility affected: (a) what changes are proposed; (b) what is the estimated cost of these proposed changes; (c) what are the estimated cost savings of these proposed changes; (d) what impact will these proposed changes have on employment; (e) what is the reason for these proposed changes; and (f) what impact will these proposed changes have on DSTO’s ability to fulfil its obligations to provide expert, impartial advice and innovative solutions for Defence and other elements of national security, and to maintain its status as a world leader in defence science and technology.

Mr Snowdon – The answer to the honourable member’s question is as follows:

There are currently no plans to close any DSTO facilities, but there are plans to upgrade facilities in Melbourne, Edinburgh, Sydney and Scottsdale.

1. Melbourne – DSTO plans to upgrade its facilities at Fishermans Bend in a staged manner with Stage 3 being completed in 2016. This will provide a number of new laboratories and the upgrading of existing laboratories and office accomodation to meet current and future demands. This is further augmented by a series of physical, passive defence measures to ensure these upgrades are appropriately protected.
   
   Edinburgh – DSTO plans to update its facilities at Edinburgh in a staged manner with Stage 1 being completed in 2016.  DSTO’s two highest priorities for this site (secure communications and training facilities) are currently being progressed at an estimated cost of $25m.
   
   Sydney – DSTO is developing a new waterfront facility at HMAS Penguin as part of the Penguin Redevelopment Project.
   
   Scottsdale – DSTO is upgrading the Manufacturing Facility at Scottsdale.
2. Melbourne – $130m.
   Edinburgh – Project planning for remaining requirements has not commenced, the cost is not yet known.
   Sydney – $3m.
   Scottsdale – $3.5m.
3. None.
4. None.
5. Melbourne – Stage 3 upgrades will provide additional research capability for DSTO Fishermans Bend staff particularly in the areas of Human Protection and Performance, Air Vehicles and Maritime Platforms Divisions.
   
   Edinburgh – A secure communications project will provide DSTO with appropriate accommodation for its Corporate Information Services staff and IT infrastructure, who presently occupy a WWII ammunition storage facility. A training facility project will provide DSTO with the capability to conduct in-house training as well as accommodate highly secure and sensitive events with coalition partners in an appropriately classified facility.
   
   Sydney – This facility replaces the Pyrmont waterfront facility due to lease expiry.
   
   Scottsdale – The manufacturing facility will be upgraded.
6. Modernising and adapting its facilities to support the changing demands of its scientific work will have a beneficial impact on DSTO’s ability to fulfil its obligations.

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