Construction of the new $870 million Moorebank Units Relocation Project in Holsowrthy has begun, following the turning of the first sod by Parliamentary Secretary for Defence, Senator David Feeney.

 

Senator Feeney said the works would include working, instructional, support and living-in accommodation to ensure all units were fully supported in the transition.

 

“This project will result in the relocation of 13 Army units and four Defence facilities, including the ‘Home of the Sapper’, Army’s School of Military Engineering.

 

“For Defence, this project is more than the relocation of facilities. It takes advantage of the opportunity to develop Holsworthy Barracks with the full range of facilities, infrastructure and services needed to effectively consolidate an efficient and lean Defence operation. The project is also timely, as Defence will no longer need to upgrade ageing facilities at the old Moorebank site.

 

As part of the project, a new main barrack entry will be established along with new security arrangements, which will help address current traffic congestion in the area and deconflict traffic accessing the barracks from that seeking access to Holsworthy Railway Station and adjacent residences.

 

New physical fitness facilities will also be built, including a range of tailored facilities to assist ADF Special Forces in the preparation of their unique and challenging role, such as parachute, waterborne and scuba entry techniques.

 

A new mess will consolidate the existing 11 messes. A Military Engineering Heritage and Learning Centre will also be built.