@Sheep Guts - I don't think that that news item is particularly correct about the "command centre" moving to Learmonth.
Perth is the sensible centre for command due to the availability of every requirement - from fuel, to food, to communications, spares and servicing.
Learmonth has been activated as a base for the Wedgetails. It's normally operated in a "ready" state - but its location and the much lower availability of all necessary requirements to support this huge operation, would make it a poor choice for overall command.
I doubt very much whether Chinese military Iluyshins will be allowed to operate from what is an important Australian military airbase.
I'm hazarding an educated guess there's military stuff at Learmonth that's a whole lot more sensitive, military-wise, than what's at Pearce.
Learmonth base activated for MH370 search | usanews.com