Defence land sale: Perth suburbs to benefit, but not at the cost of heritage

Plans to sell two Perth defence sites have raised concerns about potential development, but Defence Minister Richard Marles has assured that the sites will not be bulldozed for housing.

Irwin and Leeuwin barracks, located in prime residential areas, are set to be sold, but Mr Marles said the process will be more complex than a simple clean sweep for developers. Both sites are protected by heritage overlays, which will limit the extent of development.

The sites will undergo remediation and preparation before being transferred to the Department of Finance for sale. Mr Marles said the sales are still some way off and will not proceed until cadets and army reservists currently using the sites have transitioned to an alternative site.

"This whole exercise is making sure that our Defence estate is more fit for purpose for what Defence does," he said.

"In respect of [Leeuwin and Irwin barracks], what we are thinking mostly about is both reserves and cadets here in Perth and making sure that the outcome here … is better sites."

"That it is ultimately a better outcome for our reservists and for our cadets."

Mr Marles also mentioned that the Defence department is working closely with the WA RSL branch to consult on the move of some activity to Palmer Barracks in South Guildford.

Irwin Barracks spans 61.5 hectares in Perth's affluent western suburbs, while Leeuwin occupies 14 hectares on the Swan riverfront at East Fremantle.

While Mr Marles could not comment on expressions of interest or the potential value of the sites, he emphasized that they are protected by heritage overlays.

"They are protected by law and they will be protected by law," he said.

"None of these sites are going to be bulldozed. In fact, I think what will happen with a lot of these heritage sites is that they will be opened up to the public much more and people will be able to enjoy them."