Peter Lindsay MP Visits Lavarack Barracks

Mr Peter Lindsay MP,
Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister for Defence

Local Member Visits Lavarack Barracks Single Leap Accommodation Construction Site

Mr Peter Lindsay MP, Member for Herbert and Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister for Defence, has today outlined the benefits of the new Single Living Environment and Accommodation Precinct (Single LEAP) at Lavarack Barracks in Townsville.

"This $1.6 billion construction project is part of a two phase Government initiative delivering contemporary living-in rooms across all mainland States and Territories," Mr Lindsay said.

He said that following the recent release of the Phase 2 Request for Proposal (RFP), Defence was conducting industry site visits for the four short listed consortia at the 17 Phase 2 Single LEAP sites where 3535 living-in rooms will be constructed.

The Lavarack Barracks visit was the last of the series of industry site visits aimed at ensuring that the consortia understand the Project requirements of each specific site.

Mr Lindsay said the 540 rooms to be constructed at Lavarack will feature purpose-built rooms featuring ensuites, kitchenettes, internet and telephone connections, secure storage and under cover parking.

"The benefits to the community will flow not only during construction but will be sustained throughout the 30-year maintenance support contract which will be delivered under an innovative Public Private Partnership (PPP) between Defence and the successful Strategic Partner.

"It represents a major boost to the national and local economy in terms of employment, new infrastructure and ongoing services." Mr Lindsay said.

He said the Government expects to announce the successful consortium by mid next year with the new accommodation expected to be ready for occupation by 2011-2012.

"The successful Strategic Partner will finance, design, construct, operate and maintain accommodation services under a 30-year whole-of-life agreement," Mr Lindsay said.

He said that with the ADF's current high operational tempo, many personnel are currently deployed overseas and it is important that they have a modern, well-equipped and comfortable place to call home when they return.

These new living-in rooms, with all the mod cons expected by today's ADF personnel are what our people deserve. In today's competitive employment market we also expect they will play an important part in attracting and retaining good people for the ADF.

ENDS

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