Australian government reverses plan to sell historic defence sites after backlash
The federal government has abandoned its proposal to sell several heritage defence properties, including Victoria Barracks in Melbourne, Sydney and Brisbane, following criticism from veterans groups and former officials.
The Australian government announced it will retain ownership of several historic defence properties after a strong reaction from veterans' organisations and former prime minister Paul Keating. The decision reverses a February announcement that aimed to fully or partially sell 67 defence sites to raise about $3 billion, or roughly $1.8 billion after costs.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said the move will allow the sites to be opened to the public and preserve national history. Defence Minister Richard Marles added that the government could not "afford to be wasting money" and stressed the need for a defence estate focused on keeping Australians safe.
The Victoria Barracks locations in Southbank, Sydney and Brisbane, Fort Queenscliff and the RAAF base at Point Cook will remain publicly owned and accessible. Albanese and Finance Minister Katy Gallagher are scheduled to hold a press conference in Sydney to outline the reversal and the next steps for the remaining 63 sites slated for divestment.
The Victoria Barracks complex in Melbourne, built between 1856 and 1858, has a utilisation rate of 56 per cent and currently serves as an administrative centre. Nearby Defence Plaza Melbourne records a 46 per cent usage rate. Fort Queenscliff, established in 1860, now functions as an administration site, museum and research facility. The 112-year-old RAAF base at Point Cook, home to heritage-listed World War II hangars, had previously faced proposals for demolition, which were withdrawn after public opposition.
A defence audit released in February warned that some historic structures have deteriorated to a point where remediation is not feasible, citing health and safety hazards.