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Defence has officially marked the start of a major $160 million upgrade to RAAF Base Darwin, with a sod-turning ceremony held to acknowledge the commencement of construction on the Mid-Term Refresh project.
Works began in early April on the large-scale infrastructure and facilities upgrade, which aims to bolster the base’s operational capacity, safety and resilience. The investment will deliver a suite of improvements, including a new high-capacity main entrance, a separate upgraded entry for heavy vehicles, and vital upgrades to the base’s potable water, firefighting water and sewer systems.
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The project is designed to strengthen RAAF Base Darwin’s ability to support the high volume of personnel, aircraft and logistics during major exercises and deployments, solidifying its role as a key hub in Australia’s northern defence network.
The ceremonial event, held on Larrakia Country, featured a Welcome to Country and Smoking Ceremony led by the traditional owners of the land on which the base sits.
Brigadier Matthew Quinn, Defence’s Director General Capital Facilities and Infrastructure, said the works would significantly enhance the Australian Defence Force’s ability to operate from the strategically important base.
“This is an important step in delivering the 2024 National Defence Strategy, which highlights the need to strengthen northern bases to enable the ADF to project force more effectively,” he said.
“These upgrades follow on from recent improvements to the runway and taxiways, building on our efforts to ensure RAAF Base Darwin remains fit for purpose for years to come.”
Laing O’Rourke was awarded the managing contractor role in December 2024 and has been overseeing the delivery of the project. Defence is working closely with the company to ensure local businesses – including Indigenous enterprises – are well placed to benefit from subcontracting opportunities.
The project is expected to support up to 220 jobs in the Darwin region across the construction phase.
“The project will bring strong economic benefits to the local community and provide valuable opportunities for both local and Indigenous workers and businesses,” BRIG Quinn added.
Construction is scheduled for completion by mid-2027.
