Federal Member for Gippsland Darren Chester is urging Defence to maximise local procurement opportunities as the next stage of redevelopment at RAAF Base East Sale progresses.
The $124.5 million Facilities to Support Air Mission Training System Project will deliver fit-for-purpose facilities at RAAF Base East Sale to support contemporary aviation training for Defence graduates.
The project includes the construction of a new Air Mission Training School facility, refurbishment of the existing School of Air Traffic Control facility, and construction of new living-in accommodation for Defence personnel.
Mr Chester recently met with Defence representatives to discuss the project and stressed the importance of ensuring Gippsland businesses, workers and contractors have every opportunity to share in the benefits of the investment.
“This is another major investment in RAAF Base East Sale and a huge opportunity for local jobs, local businesses and the broader Gippsland economy,” Mr Chester said.
“Gippsland has a skilled and capable workforce, with local businesses ready to undertake a wide range of construction, trade and support works.
“I made it very clear in my meeting with Defence that local procurement must be a priority, not an afterthought.
“When more than $120 million is being invested in a major project in our region, we need to make sure as much of that money as possible stays in Gippsland and supports local families, local businesses and local jobs.”
The project will replace and upgrade existing infrastructure, including classrooms, training rooms and ground-based simulator facilities, while increasing student accommodation capacity to support projected trainee growth at RAAF Base East Sale.
The construction period is expected to run for approximately three years.
Mr Chester said the project would build on the significant redevelopment already undertaken at the base over the past decade.
“RAAF Base East Sale is a critical Defence asset and one of the most important employers in our region,” Mr Chester said.
“The relocation of the Basic Flight Training School to East Sale in 2019, following major upgrades secured under Project AIR 5428, reinforced Gippsland’s role in training the next generation of Army, Navy and Air Force pilots.
“This next stage of redevelopment will further strengthen East Sale’s role in Defence aviation training and deliver long-term benefits for the region.”
Mr Chester said opportunities for small and medium-sized local enterprises should be promoted through construction trade packages, with Indigenous business participation also pursued in line with the Government’s Indigenous Procurement Policy.
“Local businesses need to know what opportunities are available, how to get involved and what requirements they need to meet,” Mr Chester said.
“That is why it is important for Gippsland contractors, suppliers and tradespeople to attend the upcoming community drop-in session, meet the project team and learn more about the proposed works.
“We have the skills, experience and work ethic here in Gippsland, and I will keep pushing to ensure locals are given a fair chance to be part of this major project.”
A community drop-in session for the Facilities to Support Air Mission Training System Project will be held on Thursday, July 23, from 4pm to 7pm at the Sale RSL.
The session will provide an opportunity to meet members of the project team, ask questions, learn more about the proposed works and provide feedback.
