The delivery of the Henderson Defence Precinct has taken a significant step forward with the design services consultancy contract awarded to Bechtel Infrastructure Australia Pty Ltd (Bechtel).
The company will work closely with Defence and other stakeholders, including the Western Australian Government and industry, to develop an initial master plan for the precinct that will become a consolidated, Commonwealth hub for shipbuilding, ship sustainment and submarine sustainment in WA.
Deputy Secretary Naval Shipbuilding and Sustainment Group David Hanley said the appointment will guide future Defence infrastructure development at Henderson to ensure facilities meet Australia's long-term naval shipbuilding and sustainment requirements.
"Bechtel will help shape the future of the Henderson Defence Precinct by providing expert design advice and working with stakeholders to develop a master plan that supports current and future capability," Mr Hanley said.
Bechtel brings a proven track record in delivering major defence‑related infrastructure projects and is well positioned to lead this work for the Henderson Defence Precinct.
"This investment also supports Australian industry and lays the groundwork for a world-class and innovative maritime capability hub in WA with modern facilities designed to enable smarter and faster shipbuilding and sustainment," Mr Hanley said.
The master plan will guide the establishment of the site, including infrastructure layout, environmental studies and feasibility studies, which Bechtel will use - along with other work done to date - to progress the master plan, with the design on track to meet capability timelines.
This work is funded through the Government's initial $127 million commitment over three years to support planning, enabling works and design.
Mr Hanley said the precinct will support a range of capabilities, including - but not limited to - the coming build of vessels such as the Landing Craft Heavy, and contingent docking and depot level maintenance capability for conventionally armed, nuclear-powered submarines under AUKUS.
"Establishing the Henderson Defence Precinct will not only strengthen our sovereign industrial base, but will also deliver thousands of jobs and a significant economic boost to Western Australia," Mr Hanley said.
The Commonwealth continues to work closely with the Western Australian Government and industry partners to deliver this strategic national asset.
For more information, please visit the Defence website.
