South Australian businesses big winners from $65 million Hunter Class Frigate facility

Joint media release

• James Stevens MP, Member for Sturt

The Morrison Government will invest $65 million to deliver a land-based test facility for the Navy’s new Hunter Class frigates, creating up to 180 jobs at businesses across the greater Adelaide region at the project’s peak.

The test facility will enable the testing and integration of the combat systems for the Hunter program, which is delivering nine world-class anti-submarine warfare Frigates to keep Australia safe.

Minister for Defence Industry Melissa Price today announced Hansen Yuncken Pty Ltd had been engaged as the head contractor to build the state-of-the-art test facility at the St Kilda Transmitting Station in South Australia.

“These works are part of the $2.1 billion Navy Capability Infrastructure Sub-program (NCIS) to deliver maritime and shore-side facilities around the country,” Minister Price said.

“Those facilities will support the operation of Navy’s new ships being obtained under the 2017 Naval Shipbuilding Plan.

“Under the Government’s industry participation policy, Hansen Yuncken has produced an outstanding plan to maximise opportunities for local businesses to supply goods or services.

“Hansen Yuncken’s target is to have 100 per cent of the work go to businesses in the greater Adelaide region.”

Member for Sturt James Stevens said the project was further evidence of the Government’s commitment to deliver jobs in her electorate.

“This project will employ an average workforce during delivery of 90 people, peaking at around 180 on site,” Mr Stevens said.

“There will be many more employed through the supply chain and in off-site manufacturing.

“This truly is a significant win for the people of Sturt and for South Australia more broadly.”

Construction of the facility is due to start this month, with completion anticipated by early 2023.

Further information is available on the NCIS webpage at: https://www.defence.gov.au/id/NCIS/Default.asp