CPB Contractors Wins A$370m Contract to Elevate Townsville as Australia’s Army Capital

In a strategic move that underscores Australia’s commitment to strengthening its northern defence capabilities, CPB Contractors has secured a A$370 million contract to upgrade the Royal Australian Air Force’s base in Townsville, Queensland. This ambitious project is set to transform Townsville into the nation’s new “Army Capital,” a testament to the city’s growing importance in Australia’s defence landscape.

The initiative is part of a broader restructuring of the Australian Defence Force, aimed at bolstering its presence in the North. The upgrade will make Townsville a central hub for military operations, accommodating the relocation of the 1st Aviation Regiment from Darwin and the 16th Aviation Brigade from Brisbane. This shift not only enhances Australia’s strategic defence posture but also integrates Townsville more deeply into the nation’s defence framework.

RAAF Townsville, operational since 1940 and currently home to about 4,500 personnel, will see an influx of an additional 500 personnel by 2025. The expansion underscores a significant investment in the base’s infrastructure, reflecting a commitment to meeting the evolving needs of the Australian Army.

Jason Spears, Managing Director of CPB Contractors, highlighted the project’s focus on delivering “expanded, fit for purpose facilities” to support the Army’s growing numbers and spatial requirements. The project, expected to kick off with design in 2023, following governmental approvals, will commence construction in 2025 and aims for completion by 2028.

This development not only signifies a milestone in Australia’s defence strategy but also promises economic and job growth for Townsville, marking a new chapter in the city’s storied military history. As Townsville prepares to become Australia’s Army Capital, the project reflects the nation’s forward-thinking approach to security, defence, and regional development.