Lalor MP Joanne Ryan has urged the federal government to come clean on its plans for the Laverton RAAF base.
The call comes following confusion over the future of the base, with RAAF chief Air Marshal Leo Davies telling reporters in Canberra earlier today that the air force wants the site closed down, and units consolidated.
Defence Minister Marise Payne told parliament she wanted to clarify the government’s position on the Laverton base and the Richmond base in New South Wales.
“I would make to make it clear the government is not considering the closure of [either base],” she added.
Laverton, part of RAAF Williams Point Cook, is home to the defence language school and other academic and technical training facilities. If closed, the units would be relocated to Point Cook, Amberley in Queensland, or Edinburgh in South Australia. The land would then be sold off by the federal government.
Air Marshal Davies said if approved by the government, the two units would be closed in 15 years.
Ms Ryan said: “Obviously, and rightly so, Defence will make decisions to dispose of or consolidate defence assets and infrastructure based on needs and capabilities. It is important, however, that established and transparent processes be followed.”
She urged the government to come clean on the timeline and plans, expressing her concerns for the local jobs that could be moved interstate.
“The government also needs to come clean on its plans for community consultation during the consolidation process,” she said.
“Labor will closely monitor this issue as it awaits further clarification from the government.”
She made mention of her predecessor, Julia Gillard, who fought to save the base when the former Howard government sold parts of RAAF Laverton in 2006.
— with AAP
