Strengthening Australia’s Defence partnerships in the Pacific
At a glance
A purpose-built hub for Fiji’s Navy and partner agencies, the Maritime Essential Services Centre (MESC) demonstrates how Australia’s Defence partnerships build trusted relationships, boost local resilience and shape a safer, more secure Pacific.Partnership at the heart of regional security
Funded by the Australian Government, the MESC provides the Republic of Fiji Military Forces (RFMF) with a modern, purpose-built precinct that brings together critical operations. This includes the Republic of Fiji Navy Headquarters, the Rescue Coordination Centre, Suva Radio Coastal Station, the Fiji Hydrographic Office and the Fiji Information Fusion Centre. This integrated hub enhances Fiji’s capacity to protect maritime resources, coordinate regional operations, support local fishing industries and strengthen disaster response and rescue capabilities.
The MESC demonstrates how practical infrastructure can underpin broader security outcomes. As the Pacific region faces evolving maritime security challenges and climate risks, the ability for partner nations to plan, train and respond together is more important than ever. By co-locating these essential functions in one resilient, well-designed centre, the MESC will play a vital role in helping Fiji safeguard its waters and contribute to a secure and stable Pacific.
Balancing technical needs with local context
As a multidisciplinary team, we combined GHD’s engineering and project delivery expertise with architectural and design capability from GHD Design. Delivering the MESC on a coastal brownfield site required careful planning and robust design. The site presented unique challenges. The site is bordered by homes and roads, with both cleared and uncleared land, steep slopes and essential facilities that had to stay operational during construction.
Harsh coastal conditions, high humidity and salt exposure demanded simple, durable building forms that can stand the test of time and be easily maintained by local contractors. A key part of our approach was to maximise the use of local materials, skills and supply chains so that the economic benefits stay in Fiji and that the facility can be operated and maintained efficiently and sustainably.
The centre’s design also embraces environmental sustainability. Passive design features help reduce thermal load, while solar panels and water retention systems mean the facility will be largely self-sufficient for its power and water needs. Low-energy lighting and site landscaping contribute to a climate-smart solution tailored to local conditions.
Supporting a secure, resilient Pacific
Construction commenced in late 2022 and the centre is now officially in operation, with Fijian industry playing a leading role in its delivery. This local approach has created a facility that is fit for purpose, culturally respectful and supported by local knowledge and skills. It also generates jobs and economic activity, building resilience in local communities.
A model for future collaboration
The MESC is just one example of how GHD’s integrated, multidisciplinary approach supports Defence clients to deliver complex projects in challenging environments. By working closely with the Australian Defence Force, the Department of Defence and National Security and the Republic of Fiji Military Forces, we’ve created a facility that will strengthen Fiji’s maritime capability and help protect vital resources for years to come.
As Australia’s Defence partnerships in the Pacific continue to grow, projects like this show what is possible when practical solutions, shared goals and genuine collaboration come together to support a secure, resilient future for our region.
Explore the Maritime Essential Services Centre (MESC) project.