Government over its controversial proposal to sell 67 Defence properties across Australia, including several historically significant military sites.

Earlier in 2026, Defence Minister Richard Marles announced plans to sell or partially dispose of surplus Defence properties, including Victoria Barracks in Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane, along with Irwin Barracks in Karrakatta and Leeuwin Barracks in East Fremantle. The proposed sales could raise approximately $3 billion.

RSL national president Peter Tinley told the National Press Club that the Government appeared to be listening to concerns about the proposed sales, although no commitment had been made to remove particular properties from the list.

The proposal has attracted criticism from former senior political and military figures, including former governor-general and Defence chief Peter Cosgrove, who recently called for Sydney's Victoria Barracks to be retained because of its historical and national significance.

Tinley said the RSL was not concentrating on saving a particular number of properties but wanted the Government to consider how the decisions would affect the future Defence Force. He also urged those involved in the debate to remain focused on the long-term consequences rather than allowing emotions to dominate discussions.

During his address, Tinley also raised concerns about Australia's preparedness for major national emergencies, including disruptions to communications, financial systems and essential services.

He proposed three measures to improve national preparedness: legislation establishing an ongoing responsibility to prepare for emergencies, an independent commission to assess preparedness measures and a government adviser responsible for evaluating the country's readiness.

While acknowledging the Federal Government's work on its National Defence Strategy, Tinley argued that more needed to be done to turn existing plans into practical preparations.

The proposed Defence property sales remain under discussion, with the future of several historically significant military sites, including those in Western Australia, yet to be determined.