Multiplex has been appointed lead contractor for the Royal Australian Air Force's proposed $224 million redevelopment project in the Kimberley.
Multiplex has been appointed lead contractor for the Royal Australian Air Force's proposed $224 million air base redevelopment project in the Kimberley.
The Perth-based construction company will act as managing contractor for the project which is expected to deliver improved infrastructure and facilities across the RAAF Base Curtin in Derby.
Base Curtin was opened in 1988 to provide support for land, air and sea operations to help secure Australia’s northern approaches, according to the state government.
Base Curtin is one of the RAAF’s three “bare bases” which don’t have a permanent unit and are instead used for training and exercise operations.
The redevelopment project, which is subject to government approvals, will involve upgrades to the roads, electrical systems, water infrastructure, landscaping, accommodation, buildings, communications and airfield.
Multiplex will manage the delivery of the work including design development, assistance with government approvals and the subcontracting construction work.
In 2021 and 2022, Multiplex delivered the federal government’s three Centres for National Resilience, which were purpose-built quarantine facilities used to help control the spread of COVID-19.
The three centres in Perth, Melbourne and Brisbane were built using the same form of contract as the RAAF Base Curtin redevelopment award.
Chief executive John Flecker said they were delighted to work with the federal government on the significant project.
“It has been an ambition of ours to expand into the defence sector for some time and after delivering three Centres of National Resilience for the Commonwealth using the same form of contract, we believe we are well positioned to successfully manage this project and involve ourselves further in the Australian defence sector,” he said.
Multiplex regional managing director WA Chris Palandri said the project represented a major opportunity for the company to work with the communities and businesses in Derby.
“We look forward to exploring options to increase sustainable employment opportunities, cadetships and apprenticeships,” he said.
Construction is expected to commence in late-2024 for completion in mid-2026.
