BATTLE OF BRITAIN ‘LACE’
On 4 February 2026 the Australian Government released a public version of the Defence Estate Audit and the Government’s response to it – agreeing or agreeing-in-principle to all 20 of the Audit’s recommendations.
Commissioned following the 2023 Defence Strategic Review, Ms Jan Mason and Mr Jim Miller led an independent process to assess whether the estate is fit for purpose. Specifically, to make ‘recommendations to optimise the Defence estate to support the Australian Defence Force’s (ADF) posture and basing requirements to meet the nation’s future security needs and to support the long-term management and sustainment of the Defence estate.’
As a result, a total of 68 sites were identified for divestment by the Audit, including RAAF Williams – Point Cook, RAAF Williams – Laverton (partial Divestment), and RAAF Glenbrook. The report also recommended Defence adopt a more common base naming convention in lieu of service-specific base names.
The Air Force Association recognises the need for Government to review the Defence Estate, and acknowledges the strategic challenges faced now and into the future.
However, due consideration must be given for the historical and cultural connections that the Australian people have with significant sites.
This goes beyond mere infrastructure. There are places which hold significant memories for veterans and their families in honour and respect of those who have served and sacrificed. These intangible assets hold the fabric of culture, identity and tradition, being core to the ethos of the Australian Defence Force now and into the future.
The Review acknowledged that key heritage and veteran considerations must be considered and protected in divesting the Defence Estate. I encourage you to review the report and its recommendations.
There are also information sessions being made available by Defence. I also encourage you to bring your thoughts and ideas forward through your State Divisions so that we can best represent you.
Defence Estate Audit Report: https://www.defence.gov.au/sites/default/files/2026-02/Defence-Estate-Audit-Report-WEB.pdf
Defence Estate Recommendations: https://www.defence.gov.au/about/locations-property/delivering-future-estate
Meanwhile, if you have any questions or recommendations about our approach, please engage your State Division executives or our AFA Ltd Director Communications and Vice President, Deanna Nott (comms@raafa.org.au )
Thank you
Joe Iervasi
National President
Air Force Association Ltd
Image of the Australian Flying Corps Memorial which was dedicated at Point Cook in 1938 to those who served and paid the ultimate sacrifice in the service eof our nation in World War 1. It is one of the many significant places of commemoration and heritage at Point Cook that need to be protected for generations to come.