Northern Australia will be the site of a significant military build-up following the Defence Strategic Review, with Defence Minister Richard Marles promising $3.8 billion to fund upgrades for bases in the NT, WA and Queensland.
The significant military build-up focuses on the north of the country and comes after the government received heavy criticism from some quarters over perceived weakening of the armed forces in northern Australia.
He added the $3.8 billion was part of the Albanese government's"$19 billion commitment over the forward estimates to implement the six priority areas outlined in response to the DSR". Mr Marles dedicated about $2 billion towards the air bases of Learmonth in WA, Scherger and Townsville in Queensland as well as a base in the Cocos Islands and several scattered across the NT. Picture: Asanka Ratnayake/Getty Images
"The Albanese Labor government is committed to maximising these opportunities for local industry and Indigenous companies to be involved in delivering works." The Afghanistan veteran said the proposed cuts meant that the northern focus of the DSR couldn't be called a"boost" and warned it could have lasting effects on troop numbers.
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