HPG’s PositionHPG strongly opposes the proposed sale of HMAS Penguin. This site is Commonwealth Heritage listed for its exceptional architectural and historical value. The site also includes a rare, pristine Angophora forest that is both environmentally significant and widely enjoyed as part of the Bondi to Manly coastal walk. The proposed sale, part of a broader plan to divest Defence land to fund national priorities, would deliver negligible financial benefit but pose a high risk of irreversible loss. Transferring land from Commonwealth ownership raises serious concerns about the loss of heritage and environmental protections. There is no guarantee these values would be preserved under state or private control. There is a high likelihood that divested land would be developed for luxury housing. This would put the site’s built heritage and the Angophora forest at risk, as the forest is unlikely to be kept as public parkland. HMAS Penguin and its surrounding landscape are vital public assets. They embody Australia’s military heritage and contribute to the natural character of Sydney Harbour. The site should remain in Defence ownership or with the Federal Government. It should be managed by the Sydney Harbour Federation Trust to ensure protection and appropriate adaptive reuse. Read HPG’s full Position Paper and/or download a PDF copy here ➞ The public is invited to lodge a submission by 17 April 2026Submissions can be made online via the inquiry webpage, sent via email to Fadt.Sen@aph.gov.au or posted to the committee at PO Box 6100, Parliament House, Canberra ACT 2600. Here’s a link on the Parliament of Australia website on how to make a submission ➞
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