Arabic version: تحويل ثكنات ديروينت في هوبارت إلى مشروع سكني
The Derwent Barracks at Dowsing Point in Hobart is set for a significant redevelopment that will create up to 1,000 new homes. This initiative is a collaborative effort involving the federal, state, and local governments, aimed at addressing the city’s pressing housing needs. According to ABC News, the site will replace the military barracks, which is being sold as part of a larger national defence estate sell-off.
The 31-hectare site, located approximately 10 kilometers from Hobart’s central business district, has been identified for a mix of housing options, including social, affordable, and private residences. The development is expected to feature family homes, townhouses, and medium-density living arrangements, alongside community amenities and open spaces. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese expressed enthusiasm for the project, highlighting its potential to be one of the most exciting developments in the country.
Tasmanian Premier Jeremy Rockliff described the project as a “no-brainer,” emphasizing that the land is currently under-utilized and could significantly benefit the local population by providing much-needed housing. Despite the excitement surrounding the proposal, the timeline for development and the commercial value of the land remain unclear.
The transformation of the Derwent Barracks site is part of a broader strategy to address the intense housing demand in Tasmania, where rental availability has become increasingly limited. Assistant Defence Minister Peter Khalil noted that all defence sites undergoing divestment will be subject to a valuation process, which will consider various factors, including heritage and the transition of personnel.
Once the land is transferred to the state government, the current defence personnel, including 20 full-time staff and various reservists and cadets, will relocate, primarily to Anglesea Barracks. The federal government anticipates that this relocation process will take at least 12 months. Meanwhile, infrastructure funding announced in the recent federal budget could expedite the development, making it a priority for the Housing Institute Association and the Civil Contractors Federation.
