Welcome to the RAAF Base Williamtown guide.
This is your one-stop resource for everything related to living, working, and settling in Newcastle, NSW.
Discover more about RAAF Base Williamtown and the surrounding Newcastle community. This page provides an overview of the local area, including the base’s history, facilities, and key points of interest for newcomers and visitors.
Use this page to find out our comprehensive guides, local services, and contact information to help you get the most out of your time here.
RAAF BASE WILLIAMTOWN is one of the busiest Air Force bases in Australia with over 3,800 employees, ranging from permanent and reserve members to Australian public servants and industry partners.
The role of the Senior Australian Defence Force Officer (SADFO) at RAAF Base Williamtown is to represent the base and its people. At Williamtown, the Commanding Officer No.26 Squadron fulfils the role and responsibilities of the SADFO appointment.
As a leading contributor of air power, RAAF Base Williamtown and, importantly, its workforce, continues to project and protect air power capability and be responsive and adaptable to directed tasks. It is a team effort and, year after year, the Williamtown workforce demonstrates professionalism, enthusiasm and commitment to the task.
It is also important to thank and appreciate the Defence families supporting that workforce – your support enables them to deliver that air power and deploy on exercises and tasks (sometimes at relatively short notice).
On and off the base there are plenty of services and groups to help families settle into their new home. In this section, you’ll find information on local services and amenities, such as local councils, public transport, emergency services, hospitals, swimming pools and recreation facilities, libraries and major shopping hubs. There’s also information on finding a home, whether it’s a service residence, private rental or buying a property. Plus, there’s a guide to the health care and support on offer for ADF members and their families, and other Defence support available.
From childcare and early learning to primary and high school, there’s a lot to be considered when you’re moving with children. This section offers tips and advice on choosing the best type of early learning to suit to your needs. It explains how primary and high schools function locally, how to go about finding a new school and offers idea to help support students through the challenges of starting or changing school. There’s also a guide to the childcare and education support on offer through Defence Member and Family Services.
Once you’ve settled into life on your new base and local community, it’s time to get out and explore the region. Whether you’re looking for adventure, arts, entertainment, dining out, local history or simply want to get back to nature, this section has plenty to whet your appetite.
For further inspiration, maps, attractions and road trips or weekend getaway ideas, check out the local visitors’ centre links. There is so much to see and do.
Located in the heart of Port Stephens and only 10 minutes from Newcastle Airport, Pacific Dunes is a blend of luxury & tranquility surrounded by natural bushland.
Family fun park featuring 1KM toboggan run, indoor rock climbing, roller skating, bowling, mini golf & lots more
At the elaborate fort built in the 1880s, visitors can explore a number of historic buildings and installations. Guided tours of the site and its amazing tunnels are available. Nobbys Road, Newcastle.
Newcastle is famed for its ocean baths. Newcastle Ocean Baths opened in 1922 (30 Shortland Esplanade) has undergone a major renovation.