Tasmania Faces Loss of All Live-Fire Military Training Facilities
Tasmania faces the potential loss of all live-fire military training facilities if the federal government proceeds with a planned defence asset divestment. This move has sparked significant concern across the state.
RSL Tasmania has voiced concerns that this would make Tasmania the only Australian state without such facilities.
Defence Divestment Threatens Key Sites
Under the Defence Estate Audit, Tasmania is poised to lose a significant portion of its defence infrastructure. A quarter of the sites identified for divestment nationally are located within Tasmania.
Peter Williams, RSL Tasmania's northern director, highlighted the gravity of the situation. He indicated that the sell-off would remove critical infrastructure, including the Fort Direction ammunition storage and training areas at Buckland and Stoneyhead.
Impact on Reserve Training and Readiness
The potential closures would have a direct and severe impact on military training capacity in the state.
Williams stated that the closure of ranges in Buckland and Stoneyhead would eliminate live-firing capacity.
Furthermore, Williams asserted that simulation cannot adequately replace live-fire exercises for military personnel training. The proposed plan is estimated to impact approximately 700 reserve soldiers in Tasmania, who would lose their essential training depots.
Deputy Premier Criticizes "Wholesale Sell-Off"
The proposed divestment has drawn sharp criticism from the Tasmanian state government. Deputy Premier Guy Barnett described the sell-off as inappropriate and disrespectful to veterans.
Barnett emphasized Tasmania's proud military history, noting its historically higher per capita enlistment rates in world wars compared to any other state. While the state government is not inherently opposed to asset sales for purposes such as housing, Barnett issued a firm demand. He called for proper consultation and urged the federal government to reconsider what he termed a "wholesale sell-off."
Federal Government Defends Audit
Federal Minister Julie Collins has defended the audit, stating it identified...
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