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Defence housing rules tweaked to give AUKUS sailors a home

New Australian Laws Pave Way for US Submariners to Access Defence Housing Near Rockingham

In a significant development tied to Australia's deepening defence ties with the United States, new legislation has been introduced to enable American submariners and their families to reside in Defence Housing Australia (DHA) properties located near Rockingham, Western Australia. This move is part of the broader AUKUS security pact, which aims to bolster Australia's naval capabilities through the acquisition of nuclear-powered submarines and enhanced cooperation with the US and UK. The legislation, recently tabled in federal parliament, seeks to amend existing rules that previously restricted DHA accommodations primarily to Australian Defence Force (ADF) personnel and their dependents. By opening these doors to US military families, the government is addressing practical challenges associated with the impending rotation of American submariners at HMAS Stirling, Australia's key submarine base in the region.

The initiative stems from the AUKUS agreement announced in 2021, under which Australia will receive at least eight nuclear-powered submarines, with the first expected to be operational by the early 2030s. As part of this pact, the US has committed to rotating its submariners through Australian bases to provide training, maintenance support, and operational expertise. HMAS Stirling, situated on Garden Island just north of Rockingham, is poised to become a hub for these activities. With up to 700 US personnel potentially stationed there in the coming years, the need for suitable housing has become a pressing concern. Defence Minister Richard Marles emphasized that the new laws are essential for ensuring a smooth integration of allied forces, stating that "this is about making sure our partners feel at home while contributing to our shared security goals."

Under the current framework, DHA manages a portfolio of over 18,000 properties across Australia, designed to provide stable, affordable housing for ADF members. These homes are often located in purpose-built communities that offer proximity to military bases, schools, and amenities tailored to the unique demands of service life. However, foreign military personnel have historically been ineligible, forcing them to seek private rentals or other arrangements. The proposed amendments to the Defence Housing Australia Act 1987 will create a new category for "allied defence force members," specifically targeting US submariners involved in AUKUS-related activities. This change is expected to alleviate housing pressures in the Rockingham area, where the local rental market is already strained due to population growth and economic development.

Rockingham, a coastal city about 45 kilometers south of Perth, has long been intertwined with Australia's naval presence. Home to around 140,000 residents, it features a mix of suburban neighborhoods, industrial zones, and pristine beaches. The arrival of US submariners is anticipated to inject economic vitality into the region, with potential boosts to local businesses, schools, and services. Community leaders have welcomed the news, viewing it as an opportunity for cultural exchange and job creation. For instance, Rockingham Mayor Deb Hamblin noted that the influx could support infrastructure improvements, such as expanded public transport and recreational facilities. "We're excited about the possibilities this brings," she said. "It strengthens our ties with the US and positions Rockingham as a key player in national defence."

Yet, the legislation is not without its critics. Some opposition figures and community groups have raised concerns about the implications for local housing availability. With Australia's housing crisis showing no signs of abating—rental vacancies in Western Australia hovering below 1%—there are fears that prioritizing foreign military personnel could exacerbate affordability issues for everyday Australians. Shadow Defence Minister Andrew Hastie questioned the government's priorities, arguing that "while we support AUKUS, we must ensure Australian families aren't sidelined in their own backyard." Environmental advocates have also voiced apprehensions, pointing to the potential ecological impact of increased naval activity around Garden Island, a sensitive marine area known for its seagrass meadows and diverse wildlife.

To address these concerns, the government has outlined safeguards within the bill. DHA will be required to maintain a certain percentage of properties for ADF use, ensuring that Australian service members are not displaced. Additionally, US personnel will be subject to the same tenancy rules as their Australian counterparts, including contributions to maintenance and community standards. The legislation also includes provisions for temporary stays, aligning with the rotational nature of submarine deployments, which typically last several months. Defence officials have assured that the integration will be gradual, starting with small contingents to test logistics and community reception.

This housing reform is just one facet of the multifaceted AUKUS implementation. Beyond accommodations, Australia is investing billions in upgrading HMAS Stirling's infrastructure, including new berths for Virginia-class submarines and advanced training facilities. The US Navy's presence will facilitate knowledge transfer, helping Australian crews transition from diesel-electric to nuclear-powered vessels. This shift represents a monumental leap in Australia's defence posture, enhancing deterrence in the Indo-Pacific amid rising tensions with China. Experts like Hugh White, a strategic studies professor, have described it as "a game-changer for regional security," though he warns of the geopolitical risks, including potential escalation in US-China relations.

From a human perspective, the arrival of American families promises to enrich Rockingham's social fabric. Submariners, often accompanied by spouses and children, will bring diverse backgrounds and experiences. Local schools are preparing for an uptick in enrollments, with programs to support international students. Community events, such as joint barbecues or cultural festivals, could foster goodwill and mutual understanding. One US Navy veteran, speaking anonymously, shared enthusiasm: "Living in DHA housing means stability for our families during deployments. It's a win-win for alliance building."

The bill is expected to pass with bipartisan support, given the strategic importance of AUKUS. Once enacted, it could set a precedent for future collaborations, potentially extending to UK personnel as the pact evolves. In the longer term, as Australia builds its own submarine fleet, the need for such housing arrangements may diminish, but for now, they underscore the practical realities of international defence partnerships.

Economically, the benefits extend beyond housing. The AUKUS deal is projected to create thousands of jobs in shipbuilding, engineering, and support services, many centered in Western Australia. Rockingham's proximity to the Australian Marine Complex in Henderson positions it as a beneficiary of this industrial boom. Local businesses, from cafes to real estate agents, are gearing up for increased demand. However, sustainable growth will require careful planning to avoid overburdening infrastructure.

Security considerations are paramount. Housing US personnel in DHA properties ensures they are within secure, vetted communities, reducing vulnerabilities associated with off-base living. This aligns with broader efforts to safeguard sensitive technologies under AUKUS, including strict export controls and intelligence sharing protocols.

In summary, these new laws represent a tangible step in operationalizing the AUKUS alliance, blending defence needs with community integration. As Rockingham prepares to host its American guests, the initiative highlights the evolving nature of Australia's role on the global stage, balancing alliances, economics, and local impacts in an increasingly complex world. The success of this housing reform could serve as a model for future international military collaborations, reinforcing the bonds that underpin collective security. (Word count: 1,048)

Read the Full The West Australian Article at:
[ https://thewest.com.au/politics/federal-politics/new-laws-to-allow-american-submariners-to-live-in-defence-housing-properties-near-rockingham-c-19449565 ]