The federal government’s announcement that it will sell off defence sites in the western suburbs, including RAAF Base Point Cook, has been met with backlash, as many locals fear history might be turned into housing.
On 4 February, Deputy Prime Minister and Defence Minister Richard Marles revealed the 342-hectare site and birthplace of the Royal Australian Air Force would be one of 67 military sites across the country to be fully or partially divested.
Up the road, RAAF Williams Laverton will be partially divested, while the divestment of the 127-hectare Maribyrnong Defence Site will continue.
However, it was the potential sale of RAAF Base Point Cook that most upset locals, including Point Cook resident Ben Batchuluun who likened it to losing a limb.
“It’s part of the identity of the people and the identity of the future people here as well,” Mr Batchuluun said of the base.
“Not only is it a heritage site but it is what makes our community what we are, the neighbourhood with planes flying over it constantly.
“The kids love it, my friends and guests love it when they visit us,” he said.
“I believe all historic elements, military or otherwise, should be left intact.”
Point Cook MP Mathew Hilakari has since launched a petition calling on the federal government to consult the community on future land use, and to guarantee local infrastructure that would benefit the community.
He did not state whether he opposed the sale itself.
A state government spokesperson said it would consider working to unlock the site for housing.
“While this is a decision made by the Commonwealth, we welcome the opportunity to work together to unlock land for more housing,” the spokesperson said.
“Any future proposal would be considered on its merits and subject to a planning process.”
Gellibrand MP Tim Watts said he would work with the community to ensure the heritage of the site would be preserved and infrastructure would be placed before any additional housing was developed.
The Department of Defence was contacted and referred Star Weekly to its publicly available information.
The federal government has not unveiled any plans beyond selling the site.
