24 November 2017

Offshore Patrol Vessel project a huge boost for WA industry

WA Liberal Senator Linda Reynolds has welcomed the Turnbull Government’s announcement WA based Austal and Civmec have been selected as the builders of 10 Offshore Patrol Vessels for the Royal Australian Navy (RAN).

Senator Reynolds said German shipbuilder Lürssen has an impressive and long-standing record in delivering vessels for Navy’s around the world and is confident they will work with both Austal and Civmec to deliver world-class capabilities for Australia.

“Australia’s next generation Offshore Patrol Vessels, which replace the Austal built Armidale Class Patrol Boats, will be the workhorse of our naval fleet undertaking maritime surveillance, patrol and response duties.

“The OPV project is worth up to $4 billion and will provide thousands of new apprenticeships and jobs for Western Australians.

“In addition, our state will be responsible for maintenance and sustainment of these vessels; this means these jobs will be long-term and multigenerational.

“10 vessels will be constructed in Henderson from 2020 following transfer of the project from Osborne in South Australia, this project cements Western Australia’s place as Australia’s second shipbuilding hub and a global destination for shipbuilding projects.

Senator Reynolds said the recognition of WA’s shipbuilding and defence industry capabilities has come a long way over the last two years following sustained industry-led advocacy by the WA Defence Industry Council, a body she co-founded with CCI-WA.

“The WA Defence Industry Council has been critical to raising awareness of WA’s capabilities in Canberra and building links between the Federal and State Governments, research institutions and the private sector.

“We shouldn’t underestimate the impact this project will have on the WA economy, in terms of supporting thousands of long-term direct and indirect jobs. It will also provide pathways for young Western Australians looking to undertake a trade qualification and increase industrial capability in our local defence sector as it continues to pursue export opportunities.

“We will look back on this day in 30 years’ time as a defining moment for defence industry in our state, the sovereign capability we are building as a result of this project will give local industry the ability to grow WA as a global destination for shipbuilding and defence exports.

Senator Reynolds said she looks forward to continuing to promote WA’s capabilities and ensuring local industry is well positioned to contribute significantly to future naval projects.

Media Contact: Amy Blom 08 9477 5411, 0431 685 372 or amy.blom@aph.gov.au