ANZUK Force in Sembawang Singapore
Key Facts about ANZUK Force in Sembawang
ANZUK was a joint defence force composed of Australia, New Zealand and the United Kingdom, formed due to the UK’s withdrawal from “east of Suez.” It was established on 1 November 1971 and disbanded around the end of 1974.
The unit below fulfilled communications and logistical roles:
- 9 ANZUK Signal Regiment: This was the major communications unit for ANZUK, providing internal and external military communications. It absorbed existing RN transmitter and receiver stations (e.g. Suara, Kranji) and used personnel from all three nations plus local civilians.
- Former Admiralty House / ANZUK House in Sembawang: This building served as the residence of the Commander of the ANZUK Force during the ANZUK period (1971‑1974) and thus was central to ANZUK HQ functions.
- The entrance gates still have the words “ANZUK House” inscribed (or remnants thereof).
- Location & Legacy
The ANZUK Supply / Ordnance Depot was located in the north‑eastern section of what was the former HM Naval Dockyard, Sembawang, in Singapore. This uses the cluster of buildings that once housed the Royal Navy Victualling and Storing Office & Victualling Depot (SVSO & Vict Depot). - After ANZUK dissolved, many parts were handed over to Singapore, or repurposed. The Former Admiralty House is now a national monument.
New Zealand’s responsibilities to ANZUK force were effectively discharged on 1 December 1974. ANZUK force was disbanded 1 January 1975. ANZUK headquarters closed 30 April 1975. RNZN ships were formally allocated to ANZUK force till December 1974. The last two RNZN ships To serve under ANZUK force (Waikato and Taranaki) have been denied medallic recognition.
RO(G) ROGER SELL RN (Then)
Served with 9th ANZUK SIG REG 1972/3
My very best wishes for 2026 to all who served with me in Sembawang.
A very happy time.
Rog
I do not recall you Roger, however I spent most of my time at Kranji W/T ending up at ANZUK Comcen at that time you were there — John Bullock (RS)