The Strategic Fleet Pilot tender closed on 29 November and proposals are now being evaluated as part of a competitive, open and transparent procurement process.
An announcement of the successful applications will be made early next year, following evaluation of each tender and contract negotiations.
COVID-19, natural disasters and other challenges have underlined the importance of a resilient domestic maritime sector, one that can keep meeting our needs even through such disruptive events.
That's what our commitment to establish a Strategic Fleet is all about, strengthening our sovereign maritime capabilities while supporting our maritime workforce.
The five-year pilot, a first of its kind for Australia, will involve three Strategic Fleet vessels that are available to the Commonwealth to requisition in times of need, crisis or national emergency - such as natural disasters or conflict.
This pilot not only forms a critical step to establishing an Australian Strategic Fleet of 12 vessels, it will also help increase the amount of Australian qualified seafarers - with participating vessels to each offer three training berths.
I thank everyone who submitted tenders and I look forward to getting the first Australian Strategic Fleet vessels on the water.
