The Assistant Minister for Defence, and Federal Member for Canning, the Hon. Andrew Hastie MP, has announced that the Government has committed $3.67 million for infrastructure upgrades to local ADF Reserve and Cadet facilities in Mandurah.

Assistant Minister Hastie said the upgrades will deliver improvements in Defence-owned and leased premises to ensure fit-for-purpose facilities to support the ADF Reserve and Cadets in Mandurah and the Peel region.

“I am pleased to announce the expansion of ADF cadets here in Mandurah and the Peel region. This will support the consolidation of all ADF cadets onto a single site and support unit growth. Growing cadet numbers locally is a key priority of mine, and this funding will enable it to happen,” Assistant Minister Hastie said.

“I have been fighting hard for this funding and today’s announcement is great news for cadets in the Peel region. It will help build the character and skills which will assist them in meeting future life and career goals. This is especially important as a youth development opportunity for disadvantaged young people in our area.”

“There will be numerous business opportunities for local industry and suppliers and contractors through the development and delivery of the project,” Assistant Minister Hastie said.

“As a former cadet myself, I know first-hand that cadets provide young Australians with opportunities to lead, grow, and serve our country. It is a vital part of Defence’s contribution to building Australia’s future leaders.”

“Successful ADF Cadet Programs broaden community engagement with Defence by bringing together local youth, volunteers and aspects of military culture,” Assistant Minister Hastie said.

Subject to the necessary approvals being achieved, construction is scheduled to commence in 2022–23.

The expansion comes as part of the Morrison Government’s plan to grow the Australian Defence Force Cadet Program by 10 per cent over the next 12 months.

The Government will invest more than $1 billion to upgrade 73 Reserve and Cadet facilities across Australia over the next 10 years.

To find out more about the ADF Cadets - https://www.defenceyouth.gov.au/youth-programs/adf-cadets/