The Albanese Government is strengthening Defence capability in northern Australia, with major milestones reached on delivering the $250 million HMAS Cairns wharf upgrade and the completion of a new shared-user training facility for Australian Navy Cadets.
The HMAS Cairns wharf upgrade is part of the Navy Capability Infrastructure Subprogram (NCIS), supporting the next generation of Navy vessels, including the Hunter class frigates, Supply class auxiliary oiler replenishment ships, and Arafura class offshore patrol vessels.
Delivered by BESIX Watpac, the new 212-metre wharf will enable Arafura class vessels to operate from HMAS Cairns, reinforcing the Royal Australian Navy's presence in North Queensland and enhancing Australia's maritime security.
Built for resilience, the wharf has been elevated above surrounding infrastructure to withstand rising king tide levels and ensure it continues to meet Navy operational requirements for decades to come.
Through this project, more than 770 workers have worked onsite, with a peak workforce of 90 people on site each day. 13 major subcontractors have been engaged, with $67.7 million awarded to local businesses within 125 kilometres of Cairns.
Local Indigenous-owned organisations have secured almost $800,000 in contracts, while Indigenous employees have contributed more than nine per cent of total workforce hours.
Complementing the wharf upgrade is a new $11.5 million shared-user facility completed two kilometres south of HMAS Cairns.
The new facility, delivered by Hutchinson Builders, will provide a permanent home for Australian Navy Cadets from Training Ship Endeavour, including offices, classrooms, boatshed and a fully equipped galley.
Located adjacent to the Great Barrier Reef International Marine College, the new facility will strengthen integration with Cairns' marine education and training sector.
Quotes attributable to Assistant Minister for Defence, Peter Khalil:
"These projects are critical to the Royal Australian Navy's future capability and demonstrate our Government's commitment to delivering ungraded Defence infrastructure across northern Australia.
"The new wharf at HMAS Cairns will support Arafura class offshore patrol vessels, enhance engagement with our Pacific partners and ensure our Navy is equipped to meet operational demands well into the future.
"Just as importantly, it's great to see this investment delivering strong local outcomes as well, with more than $67 million flowing to regional businesses and meaningful participation from Indigenous organisations and workers."
Quotes attributable to Assistant Minister for Northern Australia and Senator for Queensland, Nita Green:
"North Queensland has always been strategically important, and these investments recognise the region's role in keeping Australia safe while supporting local livelihoods."
"From construction through to ongoing operations, these upgrades create lasting employment and training pathways for North Queenslanders."
Quotes attributable to Member for Leichardt, Matt Smith MP:
"This upgrade ensures HMAS Cairns remains a major employer and economic anchor for the region for decades to come."
"The new Navy Cadets facility gives young people in Cairns and surrounding communities a direct pathway into Navy and maritime careers, without having to leave the region."
