Tasmanian Government seeks clarity over military facility sell off

The Tasmanian Government is seeking further details on the Albanese Government’s planned sell-off of Defence facilities across the State.

The release of the Federal Government’s Defence Estate Audit reveals plans to fully divest from eight properties and end leases at seven cadet training facilities.

Minister for Business, Industry and Resources, Felix Ellis said the Tasmanian Government has not been formally consulted on the plan, with many local facilities impacted.

“Tasmania has a proud record of military service, and we need to be assured the plan is in the best interest of our local defence force personnel and future capacity,” Minister Ellis said.

"I will raise concerns with the Federal Government about the impact of these closures in the North-West and North-East communities, with no permanent or alternative facilities confirmed.

“The Tasmanian Government is supportive of any move that makes more land available for housing, and we will be seeking to ensure we work in partnership with the Commonwealth to increase the island’s housing stock.”

Deputy Premier, Guy Barnett said the decision to close the Australian Navy Cadets’ Training Ship Sheean facility was particularly heartbreaking.

“Teddy Sheean VC, a proud Tasmanian, displaying remarkable courage on 1 December 1942, when HMAS Armidale was under heavy attack by enemy aircraft,” the Deputy Premier said.

"Today’s decision to walk away from the facility named in his honour, so close to his hometown, is deeply disrespectful, and will limit opportunities for those who wish to follow in his footsteps.”