February 26, 2016
Federal Member for Gippsland, Darren Chester says the release of the 2016 Defence White Paper has confirmed the East Sale RAAF Base’s role as a major training facility for the future.
Mr Chester has welcomed the white paper which provides the Coalition Government strategy for the nation’s future defence security.
“It is the first responsibility of our Federal Government to keep our nation safe and through this white paper the Coalition Government has achieved its commitment to realign defence strategy, capability and resources,” Mr Chester said.
“We will deliver a more capable and potent defence force that will be ready to respond where Australia’s interests are engaged. Most importantly we will make sure the men and women who serve in the Australian Defence Force (ADF) have the resources and equipment they need to do their job.”
Mr Chester said further upgrades at East Sale RAAF Base would be required as Gippsland becomes home to army, navy and air force basic pilot training.
Details of additional work required at East Sale RAAF Base have not been released.
“The $185m redevelopment which has just been completed is effectively a down payment on further upgrades necessary to host the new training capability,” Mr Chester said.
“Gippsland has a long and proud history of supporting the ADF and I look forward to it continuing in the future.”
Pilot officer training is due to commence in 2019.