The Strategic Fleet Pilot tender closed on November 29, and the federal government has said it is now evaluating and assessing the proposals made as part of a transparent and open procurement process.
The establishment of a Strategic Fleet is hoped to strengthen Australia’s maritime capabilities while supporting the nation’s maritime workforce.
The five-year pilot program will involve three vessels that are available to the Commonwealth to requisition in times of need, crisis or national emergency.
The announcement of the successful applications will be made early next year.
“This pilot not only forms a critical step to establishing an Australian Strategic Fleet of 12 vessels, but it will also help increase the amount of Australian qualified seafarers – with participating vessels to each offer three training berths,” Federal Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Catherine King says.
“I thank everyone who submitted tenders, and I look forward to getting the first Australian Strategic Fleet vessels on the water.”
The Maritime Union of Australia (MUA) has also expressed its excitement towards the establishment of the strategic fleet and has labelled the program as “a great opportunity for young people, women and First Nations workers to get their start in a growing industry”.
The MUA made its statement in tandem with the Australian Maritime Officers Union (AMOU) and Australian Institute of Marine and Power Engineers (AIMPE).
National Secretary of the MUA – and member of the Strategic Fleet Taskforce – Paddy Crumlin praised the ability for unions, policymakers, commercial industry, shippers and defence force leaders to work towards a common goal.
“Today’s milestone represents the culmination of engagement and consultation that began with the work of the Strategic Fleet Taskforce and marks the commencement of commercial negotiations towards delivering on the Strategic Fleet promise that is so important for the revitalisation and restoration of our industry and to the economic and social security of Australians,” Crumlin says.
“As well as supporting our existing workforce or bringing people back to the industry, the Strategic Fleet pilot program is a great opportunity for young people, women, and First Nations workers to get their start in a growing industry, working on the Australian coast in the national interest.
“However, our maritime skills and training infrastructure needs to meet the challenge of helping new Australian seafarers climb the gangway of these ships for the first time.”
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