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Project: |
Astra Aerolab |
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Contractor: |
Daracon Contractors |
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Status: |
In progress – Stage 1 works scheduled for completion late 2020 |
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Budget: |
Stage 1 - $19.7 mil - part funded by the NSW Government’s $11.79 mil contribution under the Growing Local Economies program. |
Uniquely co-located with RAAF Base Williamtown and Newcastle Airport, Astra Aerolab is Australia’s newest defence and aerospace precinct. A one-of-a-kind place, enhancing Australia’s ability to deliver world class sustainment and manufacturing capability to the Defence sector.
We announced the appointment of Daracon as lead contractor for Stage 1 civil works in February 2020. Currently underway, the Stage 1 works are nearing completion.
Scope of work
Adjacent to the airport terminal precinct, the Astra Aerolab site was initially purchased in 2018 and has moved quickly from concept to a reality. In mid-2018 NSW Deputy Premier, John Barilaro MP announced $11.79 million in funding for the Astra Aerolab development. On 14 May 2019 the Deputy Premier turned the first sod of soil at the Astra Aerolab site, marking the ceremonial commencement of early works. At the same time a Heads of Agreement was signed with major defence contractor BAE Systems Australia to lease land on the 76-hectare precinct.
Stage 1 works include construction of:
- road pavements, sewer and water
- lighting, CCTV and fencing
- street furniture, signage, high quality landscaping and street art.
Astra Aerolab will be a unique ‘green’ precinct with sustainability and innovation at its core. It will include the installation of smart pole technology, energy efficient facilities and water sensitive urban design, along with a secure and security sensitive environment allowing connections to our defence neighbours at RAAF Base Williamtown. The project aims to achieve overall precinct sustainability accreditation.
Astra Aerolab will provide a unique onsite experience and optimised workspace options - delivering the best possible conditions for innovation and excellence.