The federal government has announced plans to sell off 67 defence sites across Australia, including prime riverside land in Perth, to raise approximately $1.8 billion for northern bases and the AUKUS submarine program. In Western Australia, the Defence Department will sell its main Army Reserve site at Irwin Barracks, a 61.5-hectare property in Karrakatta, and the 14-hectare Leeuwin Barracks in East Fremantle.
Up to 1,150 reservists at Irwin Barracks will be relocated to Palmer Barracks in South Guildford, along with about 200 Australian Defence Force personnel and 250 cadets. At Leeuwin Barracks, about 250 cadets, 150 reservists, 100 public service staff, and 50 ADF personnel will be affected. The move follows a failed attempt to sell Leeuwin Barracks in 2015.
Defence Personnel Minister Matt Keogh stated that construction of new facilities at Palmer Barracks will begin to accommodate the consolidated force, with good transport links near the airport. Once ready, personnel will move, allowing the sale of Irwin and Leeuwin Barracks. Keogh noted that some of the land may be used for housing.
WA Defence Industries Minister Paul Papalia emphasized the need to expand Palmer Barracks to accommodate Army units before any land sale. All proceeds from the sales will be reinvested by Defence. The 2023 Defence Strategic Review highlighted the importance of strengthening northern bases, particularly in Western Australia, as a primary area of military interest.
