HMAS Creswell was established in January 1958. It is located on the south-western shores of Jervis Bay in the Jervis Bay Territory, 180 kilometres south of Sydney. As part of a large national park and in recognition of its historical significance, Creswell is listed on the National Register as a significant heritage site.
HMAS Creswell consists of the Royal Australian Naval College and four other departments. The School of Survivability and Ship's Safety teaches firefighting, damage control and nuclear, biological and chemical defence. The Beecroft Weapons Range across the peninsula offers targets for Naval Gunfire Support practice. The fourth department provides administrative support for all sections operating out of Creswell.
The establishment is surrounded by Booderee National Park and sits on the shore of Jervis Bay Marine Park. The coastal region is a popular haven for fishing, swimming, water skiing, horse riding, trail bike riding, canoeing, sky diving, and gliding.