Lendlease has recently secured a contract with the Department of Defence to deliver the Air555 project at RAAF Base Edinburgh.
The project includes the construction of new facilities and infrastructure to support RAAF’s incoming M-55A Peregrine EW aircraft.
Chis Leopold, SA General Manager for Lendlease Building, said the appointment reinforced Lendlease’s local Defence capability and commitment to the region.
“Projects of this scale and significance require the collaboration of many minds and expertise across government, industry, the supply chain and community.
“We look forward to the opportunity to collaborate with our partners to create world- leading facilities that deliver the next generation of Australian Defence capability here in SA,” he said.
“The impacts of COVID-19 have strengthened our desire to support small and medium sized enterprises here in SA and that’s why we will be targeting a minimum of 80% contracts awarded to local companies.
“At its peak the Air555 project will create opportunities for 200 local workers.
“Maximising the opportunity for small businesses to participate in our Defence projects not only boosts the state’s economy, but also helps these businesses expand their local operations, to develop world-class Defence capabilities here in SA.
“Part of this focus involves partnering with the Kaurna people, the Traditional Owners and First Peoples of the Adelaide Plains to unlock the right training, employment and procurement opportunities on the Air555 project.
“Kaurna Nation and Lendlease have enjoyed a proud history of working together across several projects including Air7000, Northern Connector, Osborne South Development and now Air555.
“We aim to target a minimum of 4% contracts awarded to Indigenous businesses, strengthening our commitment to create sustainable economic development opportunities for the Kaurna community on our projects."
Work is due to commence in late November 2020, with the Initial Operating Facility and completion in May 2024 of the Main Operating Base Squadron Facility.