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The Commonwealth and West Australian governments have committed to sponsoring studies to inform the development of Henderson’s Australian Maritime Complex.
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Minister for Defence Linda Reynolds has revealed that the federal government is set to invest more than $9 million over the next two years in a series of detailed studies aimed at enhancing the strategic infrastructure and land use planning of the Australian Maritime Complex (AMC) in Henderson, Western Australia.
The studies, commissioned by the WA government, are expected to explore:
- wharf design;
- shiplift and docking options;
- vessel transfer paths;
- new berth options;
- security;
- utilities;
- facilities and amenities; and
- integrated transport solutions.
Minister Reynolds stressed the importance of the role the AMC plays in providing support to Defence, commercial shipbuilding and repair, the resource sector, and offshore oil and gas.
“The AMC is a key sustainment hub for Australia’s surface and submarine fleets, and is one of only two sites identified for shipbuilding under the National Naval Shipbuilding Plan,” she said.
“The Morrison government is already investing up to $1.5 billion in infrastructure at both Henderson and Fleet Base West at HMAS Stirling.
“I’ve been working closely with [Premier of Western Australia Mark McGowan] and [WA Minister for Defence Issues Paul Papalia] on shaping the future of the Henderson Maritime Precinct.”
The minister continued: “By leveraging off the precinct’s existing industry presence, these studies will explore opportunities to collaborate on technology development and innovation.”
Minister Reynolds said the AMC — which was established in 2003 — is “perfectly situated” to evolve its capabilities as Defence introduces “larger and more complex” ships and submarines, while also creating new job opportunities.
“This initiative will create new jobs for local companies, inform future federal and state investment in infrastructure, and also promote new investment opportunities for the Australian finance sector,” she said.
“Importantly, it demonstrates my and the Morrison government’s commitment to WA Industry and jobs.”
[Related: Calls for defence community input on Henderson Marine Complex]
