The State’s first Air Force Base and Australia’s second, RAAF Base Richmond will be upgraded as part of a $428 million investment to significantly improve its operational defence capability.
Around $100 million of the funding will be used to upgrade critical airfield infrastructure at the RAAF Base and create up to 160 local jobs.
Liberal Candidate for the Seat of Macquarie Sarah Richards said the investment would provide positive flow-on effect for the entire region.
“This is a significant amount of money being injected directly into our area and I particularly like the fact that local tradies will be provided the first opportunities to bid for the work,” Ms Richards said.
“For the residents of Macquarie, it also means that the Government knows how important our local RAAF Base is to our economy.
“Having levied on RAAF Base Richmond in my teen years, and as a daughter of a veteran, I know that our local defence community will welcome the funds.”
Ms Richards said airfield upgrades included:
- Aircraft runway and pavement improvements, including resurfacing asphalt, replacing concrete and remediating ornamentation;
- Replacing end of life electrical equipment and infrastructure associated with the provision of airfield lighting; and
- Ensuring aviation safety and WHS requirements are met.
She said construction was planned to commence lat this year and was expected to finish in late 2024.
Minister for Defence Industry Melissa Price said that a significant investment would provide benefits to the local economy, maximising the opportunities for local businesses.
“We are ensuring that the RAAF Richmond works are prioritised, and local tradies have the opportunity to work on this significant Defence investment,” Minister Price said.
“Importantly, this investment has ensured that our estate works contractors have committed to an average of 78 per cent local industry content, with some committing to up to 100 per cent.”
RAAF Base Amberley, RAAF Pearce, and HMAS Albatross will also undergo upgrades.
Minister for Defence Peter Dutton siad these upgrades would ensure that the Australian Defence Force could continue to provide critical capabilities.
“Upgrades to these airfields will ensure that the men and women of the ADF can continue to
