Residents in Clareville are being urged to pay attention to a growing campaign against the proposed sale of land associated with HMAS Penguin, with part of the naval facility’s broader footprint extending to Sydney’s northern beaches.
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The issue gained fresh momentum after former prime minister Tony Abbott addressed a packed public meeting in Mosman, where community members gathered to discuss the future of the Middle Head naval base and neighbouring angophora forest.
Mr Abbott used the forum to voice strong opposition to plans to divest part of the Defence site, arguing local communities should be prepared to campaign vigorously to keep the land in public hands.
While much of the debate has centred on Middle Head, the proposal has broader implications for residents interested in the future of Defence land around Sydney Harbour and the northern beaches, including facilities linked to HMAS Penguin’s operations.
The Commonwealth identified HMAS Penguin for partial divestment as part of the 2023 Defence Estate Audit, which reviewed military properties across Australia and recommended the disposal of a number of sites considered surplus to Defence requirements.
According to Defence, key capabilities based at HMAS Penguin, including clearance diver training and specialist underwater medicine services, would remain in operation. However, campaigners say important questions remain unanswered, particularly regarding the exact boundaries of any future land sale.
A major focus of community concern is an area of angophora forest adjoining the base at Middle Head. Campaigners argue the bushland has significant environmental and heritage value and should remain protected from future development.
The Headland Preservation Group has launched an open letter calling on Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, Defence Minister Richard Marles, Finance Minister Katy Gallagher, Environment Minister Murray Watt and independent MP Zali Steggall to exclude the forest from any divestment plans.
Community opposition has steadily grown since details of the proposed sale emerged earlier this year. Public meetings, advocacy efforts and letter-writing campaigns have sought to persuade decision-makers to reconsider the proposal.
Mr Abbott’s intervention has added a high-profile voice to the debate. Drawing on examples of past grassroots campaigns that protected parts of Sydney from redevelopment, he encouraged residents to remain active and engaged as discussions continue.
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Defence Minister Richard Marles has argued that disposing of some Defence land could ultimately improve public access to areas that are currently restricted. Campaigners, however, remain unconvinced and continue to push for long-term protection of the forest and surrounding landscape.
For residents of Clareville and across the northern beaches, the debate highlights broader questions about the future use of publicly owned land, environmental conservation and the preservation of sites with longstanding links to Australia’s defence history.
The final extent of any HMAS Penguin land sale has not yet been released, meaning the future of the affected areas remains uncertain. Until further details emerge, community groups say they will continue lobbying and building public support for their campaign.
Published 21-June-2026
