Today marked a significant milestone for the Australian-Singapore Military Training Initiative (ASMTI) as Federal Member for Capricornia, Michelle Landry, joined Singapore’s Senior Minister of State for Defence, Mr. Heng Chee How, at a commemorative ceremony to officially open the expanded Shoalwater Bay Training Area (SWBTA).
The $1 billion investment in the Shoalwater Bay Training Area has delivered a field kitchen and dining building, administration building, medical building, Exercise Control Centre (EXCON), landing zone, logistics facilities and supporting infrastructure.
Federal Member for Capricornia, Michelle Landry, highlighted the ASMTI as a transformative project for the region, emphasising the economic boost and strengthened ties brought about by the Australia–Singapore Comprehensive Strategic Partnership.
“In 2015, the former Coalition Government launched the Australian Singapore Military Training Initiative to not only bolster Australia’s bilateral relationship with Singapore and enhance our economic resilience but also to further develop our Defence capabilities,” Ms. Landry said.
“For over 34 years, the Rockhampton region has welcomed Singapore’s forces to train on what is regarded as one of the world’s best military grounds for Exercise Wallaby. The ASMTI has taken this long-standing relationship to a new level.
“The expansion of SWBTA has supported over 450 local jobs and created $70 million in opportunities for Central Queensland communities,” she added.
With permanent accommodation now in place for 1,520 personnel at SWBTA, Exercise Wallaby has expanded from a 45-day training period to a nine-week training season, allowing up to 6,600 troops to engage in military exercises from this year.
“This significant investment by Singapore underscores our strong friendship. I will continue working with Singapore’s High Commissioner, His Excellency Mr. Anil Kumar Nayar, to ensure we deepen these ties,” Ms. Landry said.”
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