The Hon Matt Thistlethwaite MP: Government invests in crucial capability infrastructure at RAAF Base Amberley

The Albanese Government is investing in critical infrastructure to support Australia’s air combat capability with a $4 million upgrade at Defence’s largest operational air base, RAAF Base Amberley near Ipswich in Queensland.

Ensuring the Australian Defence Force (ADF) has modern, fit-for-purpose facilities and infrastructure in place to support its critical capabilities is essential to keeping Australians safe.

RAAF Base Amberley is home to the Royal Australian Air Force’s F/A-18F Super Hornet and EA-18G Growler fleets. This $4 million investment will support these platforms by delivering an upgrade to Amberley’s external fuel tank workshop, communications support works, and electrical repairs and maintenance works.

These projects will support fuel quality testing for the Hornet and Growler fleets, as well as upgrade electrical infrastructure and deliver base infrastructure in support of deployable ICT communications equipment.

Works have already begun and will create over 100 Queensland jobs, providing significant opportunities for local trades, construction and other businesses, including promoting the participation of Indigenous companies.

Quotes attributable to Assistant Minister for Defence, the Hon. Matt Thistlethwaite MP:

“The Albanese Government recognises that our Defence sites must be equipped to meet operational and capability requirements, now and in the future.

“These projects, to be delivered by local businesses, will create opportunities in the trades and construction industries and deliver over 100 jobs.

“We will continue to invest in foundational estate and infrastructure, which is critical to the capacity of our Defence Force to keep Australians safe.”