South Australia - The Defence State

GROWING DEFENCE PRESENCE

Edinburgh Defence Precinct is set to become one of Defence's 'Mega Bases'. Accelerating this growth is capital construction worth around $600 million to support the 7RAR Mechanised Battalion's relocation from Darwin in 2011.

With 1,200 personnel, the battalion will significantly boost South Australia's full time Army presence and is expected to contribute around $100 million of economic benefit to the state annually once fully operational. 

Edinburgh was chosen as the battalion's new base because it is both cost-effective for the Army and an attractive posting location for personnel. Readily accessible to transport, training facilities and deep maintenance support, Edinburgh has a proven record of positive outcomes in recruitment, retention and Defence family welfare.

WORLD-CLASS DEFENCE FACILITIES

South Australia's established training facilities have unique terrain and conditions that are ideally suited for HNA requirements.

Cultana Training Range, at the top of the Spencer Gulf, is used extensively by Army for manoeuvre and weapons training and is set for major expansion and infrastructure upgrade over the next few years.

The Proof and Experimental Establishment at Port Wakefield, and the Woomera Test Range in central South Australia are two other unique facilities ideal for research, development and proofing of equipment, weapons and explosive ordnance.

Excellent road and rail links connect Edinburgh Defence Precinct, Port Wakefield, Cultana, Woomera and Darwin, enabling easy transport of equipment, stores, and personnel. South Australia is an ideal Defence transportation hub, central to the east, west and northern coasts of Australia.