STATEMENTS BY MEMBERS

Mr WILKIE (Clark) (13:36): Reform of the defence estate is long overdue, and it's a credit to the federal government that it's finally trying to sort out all the unused, under-utilised, inefficient and unsuitable stock. But, that said, the reform is confronting for veterans, serving members and the community, especially in Tasmania, which is bearing the brunt of the changes.

As it stands, reservists and cadets will be forced to parade at new locations, which will be disruptive and a disincentive. And there will be no field firing facilities in the state, which would be a nonsense. So I say to the government: please continue to push information out, but also be open minded as stakeholders provide feedback.

After all, flexibility in war is much better than reinforcing defeat.