Construction will soon commence on new facilities in Tweed Heads, New South Wales, set to benefit the Australian Army's A Company, 41st Battalion, Royal New South Wales Regiment, and 225 Army Cadet Unit.

The project is being spearheaded by local Indigenous companies, marking a significant milestone in the Commonwealth Government's Indigenous Procurement Policy.

It was announced this week that DDR Pty Ltd, a local business with 51 per cent Indigenous ownership, has successfully secured a $12.71 million contract for the construction.

Providing support throughout the construction process is Jabin Project Management, a wholly Indigenous-owned company.

Jabin is a 100% Indigenous-owned engineering consultancy, led by two Indigenous engineers, Dennis Jose and Grant Maher.

The duo bring significant experience in both project management and on Country engineering design.

The project involves the development of a multi-user depot with storage, parking, and associated infrastructure.

It will also include minor refurbishment of the Training Ship Vampire, a facility used by the Royal Australian Navy Cadets.

These developments and upgrades will significantly benefit A Company, the 41st Battalion, the Royal New South Wales Regiment, and a reserve unit of the Australian Army, particularly in light of their significant efforts in Operation Flood Assist and recovery efforts.

Assistant Minister for Defence, Matt Thistlethwaite, expressed his satisfaction with the progress of the project.

"It's great to see us reach this important milestone as we break ground for the new multi-user facilities we're building for the Australian Army," he said.

The Assistant Minister also highlighted the project's alignment with the Government's Indigenous Procurement Policy.

"I'm proud to see two Indigenous-owned businesses leading the construction work and the project management and contract administration," he said.

The project is expected to create local job opportunities in the Northern Rivers region of New South Wales, with a target of 85 per cent local contractor engagement.

This initiative not only supports the local economy but also showcases the capabilities and expertise of Indigenous-owned businesses in the region.