9 December 2004
Local Business Big Winners From 'Tiger' Facilities
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Paul Henderson MLA
Minister for Business and Industry and
Minister for Defence Support
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Most of the work on the $75 million project to relocate the 1 st Aviation Regiment from interstate to Robertson Barracks is currently flowing to local Territory business, Minister for Business and Industry and Minister for Defence Support Paul Henderson said today.
The project includes constructing facilities to house 17 ‘Tiger’ Armed Reconnaissance Helicopters as well as maintenance, command, training and domestic facilities.
Mr Henderson said with the project moving into its second stage, which involves construction of an Aviation Precinct, Command Precinct and Logistics Facilities, successful contractors have committed to using local businesses to undertake the vast majority of work.
“Last week, John Holland Pty Ltd was announced as the winning contractor for construction of the Command Precinct at a cost of $13.9 million. The company has advised that 100% of the available work will go to local Small to Medium Enterprises (SMEs).
“Barclay Mowlem has won the contract for the Aviation Precinct for $26.3 million and expects local business participation on the project to be in excess of 90%.
“Work on the two contracts has begun and is expected to be completed in October 2005.
“The Department of Business and Industry is also working with Australian Aerospace, the company assembling the Tiger Helicopters in Brisbane , regarding opportunities for local SMEs to provide ongoing support to Australian Aerospace and Defence for the helicopters once they arrive here.
“The Department is also working with the company on establishing an apprenticeship program here in Darwin once the Tigers arrive.
“The benefits of the relocation project to local business and the local economy are considerable.
“John Holland has also been awarded the contract to construct live-in accommodation at the Barracks worth $5.9 million. Once again, the company expects all of the work to be taken up by local SMEs.
“In addition, around 120 to 200 dwellings will be built at Lee Point to meet increased demand for accommodation when the 200 defence personnel associated with the 1 st Aviation Regiment and their families move here. This project presents more opportunity for local business.
“Overall, this project is proving a big winner for local business and will help to keep the Territory moving ahead.”