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Defence has signed a new contract to support shipbuilding efforts at the Henderson defence facility in Western Australia.
Signing with Bechtel Infrastructure Australia, Defence is working towards developing a major consolidated “defence precinct” at the Henderson facility, with Bechtel set to provide specialist infrastructure design advice.
“The Cook government welcomes the appointment of Bechtel Infrastructure Australia to complete master planning of the Henderson Defence Precinct,” said WA Minister for Defence Industry Paul Papalia.
“This project will support thousands of highly skilled jobs and ensure Western Australia is home to the largest naval maintenance hub in the southern hemisphere.”
Defence said this contract is the “next step” in transforming WA to a national defence capital, with investments and contracts continuing to be established in the state.
The planned defence precinct will support secure naval shipbuilding and sustainment efforts, contributing to Australia’s wider commitment to expanding its sovereign defence capabilities.
Over 10,000 jobs are expected to be established and maintained over the next 20 years in WA’s defence industry.
The defence precinct will be primarily built to support construction of landing craft for the Army, as well as Mogami Class frigates and sustainment efforts for existing submarines.
The precinct will additionally maintain contingency docking capabilities for Australia’s soon-to-be nuclear-powered submarine fleet.
“Awarding this contract moves us closer to making the Henderson Defence Precinct the home of continuous naval shipbuilding and sustainment, and a critical sustainment site for our future submarine capability,” Minister for Defence Industry Pat Conroy said.
“This contract reflects our commitment to partnering with industry to build a smarter, faster and more innovative maritime capability hub.
“Input and insights from industry and other stakeholders will lay the groundwork for defence industrial depth and long-term national resilience.”
