Arabic version: ألبانيزي يوقف بيع ثكنات فيكتوريا بعد ردود فعل غاضبة

According to ABC News, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has scrapped the planned sale of Sydney’s heritage-listed Victoria Barracks, saying the 166-year-old site will remain in public hands after widespread political backlash.

Victoria Barracks Sydney had been among 67 Defence sites identified for sale following an independent estate audit in February. The proposed disposals were intended to generate $1.8 billion for the government. The Sydney barracks drew particular opposition, with the Coalition, Greens, teal independents and One Nation condemning the plan. Former prime minister John Howard also joined a protest against the sale.

Mr Albanese said Victoria Barracks Sydney had a special place in the nation’s history and would be retained publicly. He said the program created opportunities to open Defence’s historic sites and buildings to the public and commemorate national history.

The Sydney site, Victoria Barracks Melbourne, Fort Queenscliff and Point Cook, also known as RAAF Williams, will be transferred from Defence to the Finance department. Defence Minister Richard Marles said personnel would be moved off the properties and the sites would be opened to the public. He said Defence sites needed to be fit for purpose and that money should be used for defence capability.

Finance Minister Katy Gallagher said the heritage of each site was protected by law and that public ownership would preserve them for future generations. Mr Albanese, Mr Marles and Senator Gallagher were due to provide a further update on the Defence estate audit later in the day.