Parliamentary Secretary for Defence, the Hon Darren Chester MP, today announced that the $54.8 million Replacement Chinook Facilities Project, which supports the acquisition of seven new Boeing CH-47F Chinook Helicopters, has been referred to the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Public Works.

“If approved, the facilities project will provide new and upgraded working accommodation, new maintenance hangars, storage and workshop facilities, and a simulator building,” Mr Chester said.

The project will give the Army’s 5^th Aviation Regiment, located at RAAF Base Townsville, the modern and appropriate facilities they need to operate, train and maintain the new helicopters and simulators.

“This project will offer strong economic benefits to the Townsville region over the next three years, with potential involvement for local sub-contractors to be part of the development,” he said.

Subject to Parliamentary approval, construction is expected to commence in late 2014 with planned completion by mid 2017.