Securing the North
Whether it be jumping into Northern Australia with the 3rd Battalion RAR, during Kangaroo ’95, or serving with NORFORCE in 2007 I’ve loved being part of the Defence of Australia from the North. Now as the Australian Government’s Special Envoy for Defence, Veterans Affairs and Northern Australia, I’m more involved then ever.
The 2024 Integrated Investment Program (IIP) delivers a massive $14-$18 billion investment over the next decade funding upgrades to critical defence facilities, making the region even more integral to Australia’s efforts to protect our borders and work with international partners.
Significant upgrades are underway at RAAF Base Tindal including boosting its air refuelling capabilities to ensure that our Defence Force is ready for any challenge, anywhere.
The redevelopment of the Larrakeyah Defence Precinct in Darwin will bring new berthing facilities for submarines and surface ships, cementing Darwin’s position as a key maritime defence hub.
There has been significant investment in Robertson Barracks home of the 1st Brigade, and recently 7 RAR have reunited with 5 RAR making Darwin home again.
These upgrades go beyond improving our defences by creating a wealth of opportunities for local workers and businesses. Thousands of jobs will be generated, from construction projects to ongoing maintenance and beyond.
Darwin is a key international defence hotspot. In 2024, the city hosted the Trilateral Defence Ministers’ Meeting, bringing together Australian, United States, and Japanese leaders to discuss regional security. The decision to hold this high-level meeting in Darwin highlights the city’s growing importance in our defence strategy.
The Albanese Government is also expanding trilateral defence cooperation with regular joint training exercises. The Japan Ground Self-Defence Force’s Amphibious Rapid Deployment Brigade will begin deploying annually to Darwin, strengthening ties and improving our collective security in the Indo-Pacific.
All of this is part of a broader vision to increase Defence spending to 2.4% of GDP by 2033-34. The Albanese Labor Government is making a bold and long-term commitment to Australia’s security. With Defence spending set to nearly double over the next decade, we’re ensuring that our military has the resources it needs to meet emerging global threats and maintain Australia’s strategic position in the region.
