The Australian government has released the 2024 Naval Shipbuilding and Sustainment Plan, which outlines an investment of up to $99 billion over the next decade.
The plan details a 30-year pipeline of construction and sustainment projects, primarily based in South Australia and Western Australia. These projects will involve the production of 55 new vessels, including conventionally armed and nuclear-powered submarines, and an enhanced surface combatant fleet for the Australian Army.
“The long-term investment laid out in the 2024 Naval Shipbuilding and Sustainment Plan represents the Albanese government’s vision for continuous naval shipbuilding and sustainment, a future made in Australia and our commitment to keeping Australians safe,” Deputy Prime Minister Richard Marles said.
Canberra anticipates that these construction projects will generate approximately 8,500 jobs in shipbuilding and sustainment by 2030, with an additional 20,000 jobs expected over the next 30 years to support Australia’s nuclear-powered submarine program. The plan also includes investments in education and training initiatives to develop a skilled workforce.
According to the Department of Defence, the shipbuilding and sustainment plan will be updated every two years to adapt to the changing strategic environment. The next iteration is scheduled for release in 2026.
The plan’s release follows Defence’s recent designation of the Collins-class submarine sustainment project as a product of concern. This designation will increase ministerial oversight to ensure the fleet remains effective even while operating beyond its original design life.
Earlier this month, BAE Systems and government-owned ASC announced a partnership to deliver the SSN AUKUS fleet of nuclear-powered submarines to the Royal Australian Navy. The partnership will focus on developing a build strategy, supply chain management plans and a workforce development policy.