Australian Civmec unveils plans for new naval shipbuilding facility

Australian heavy engineering company Civmec Limited has unveiled plans for its new shipbuilding facility that will be primarily targeted at naval defence projects.

The ground-breaking ceremony took place in Henderson on September 16 and was attended by the Premier of Western Australia Colin Barnett.

Through its wholly owned subsidiary Forgacs Marine and Defence Pty Ltd, Civmec is aiming at taking part in Australia’s A$89 billion naval ship and submarine upgrading program, which forms part of the Australian government’s projected A$195 billion overall defence investment over the next decade.

“The significant capital investment by Civmec to develop these facilities is an example of the confidence local industry has in Western Australia’s future,” Colin Barnett said. “The Liberal National Government is supporting WA businesses to secure defence industry work and is committed to further growing the industry and securing local jobs for decades to come.”

The new facility will be able to house ship construction and on-going maintenance under cover close to Fleet Base West – the home of Australia’s submarine force and half of its naval surface fleet.

It will be situated on approximately seven-hectare (70,000 square metres) of land adjoining the south side of the group’s existing facility at the Australian Marine Complex in Henderson, and when operating at capacity is expected to provide additional jobs for up to 1,000 workers.