Details
HMAS Stirling, in Western Australia, will continue to be the home of Australian submarines.
Western Australia will be at the forefront of the Optimal Pathway for Australia's acquisition of a conventionally-armed nuclear-powered submarine (SSN) capability. This will include:
- Receiving more frequent port visits from UK and US SSNs, beginning in 2023.
- A rotational presence for UK and US SSNs - the Submarine Rotational Force - West (SRF-West) - from as early as 2027.
- Housing Australia's first SSN capability - the US Virginia Class submarines - from early 2030s.
An additional 500 direct jobs are expected to be created to sustain SRF-West over the period 2027-2032.
HMAS Stirling will be expanded to support the scale of infrastructure required for nuclear-powered submarines - both for visiting and rotational submarines and for Australia's own nuclear-powered submarines in the future.
The Australian Government will invest up to $8 billion over the next decade to expand HMAS Stirling, creating around 3,000 direct jobs, and in turn supporting the local economy. This includes:
- Wharf upgrades.
- Operational maintenance, logistics and training facilities.
- Opportunities for supporting infrastructure outside of HMAS Stirling.
Western Australian education institutions will also play a key role in the development of skilling programs to support workforce growth.