Since the 1960s, Shoalwater Bay has played a vital role in Australian and international military training. Now, Laing O’Rourke’s experience is bringing a powerful upgrade.

From mid-1965, over 4,500km² of the Shoalwater Bay region, north of Rockhampton, Queensland, has served as a military training area. It was first used by troops that were deployed to serve in the Vietnam War, and has played an important role in military training of Australian and international forces ever since.

Laing O’Rourke, as the managing contractor of the Australia-Singapore Military Initiative Facilities Project (ASMTI), is utilising its global experience in construction to lead the project, including the construction of new facilities and the upgrading of current infrastructure. 

A key initiative of a comprehensive strategic security partnership, the project represents a strengthening of Australia’s bilateral defence relationship with Singapore.

When ASMTI reaches maturity, up to 14,000 Singapore Armed Forces personnel will conduct unilateral training for up to 18 weeks a year for the next 25 years.

By the end of 2026, 14,000 Singaporean personnel will spend 18 weeks annually in the Shoalwater Bay Training Area.

An investment in security

ASMTI has seen more than $1.25 billion invested in Central Queensland which has included the acquisition of approximately 110,000 hectares of land for the expansion. This project has also involved a strong focus on local industry participation for lasting and tangible benefits for regional jobs, skills and the economy, with Laing O’Rourke awarding more than 80% of the works to regional Queensland contractors and suppliers.