ASC's new shipyard open for business

ASC’s $120 million shipyard, located at Osborne, South Australia, has been completed and will be officially opened today.

The new shipyard will become ASC’s construction and consolidation site for the $8 billion Hobart Class Air Warfare Destroyer (AWD) Program.

“Today marks a defining moment in the history of ASC as we continue to forge a path at the frontline of Australia’s naval shipbuilding industry,” Chairman Vice Admiral Chris Ritchie AO RANR said.

“This state-of-the-art facility means we are now in a position to confidently ramp up the build phase of the AWDs, which is one of the most complex engineering projects ever undertaken in this country.”

ASC’s shipyard includes dedicated AWD production facilities, new office accommodation for 400 employees, a wharf support building with office space and workshops, and a significant upgrade to existing facilities.

“We have already achieved many planning and design milestones for the AWD Program and the shipyard opening is the next step in a new era for ASC.

“ASC’s Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Mr Steve Ludlam, has also just come on board, so it’s an exciting time right now for the company.

“The shipyard incorporates the latest production design features currently utilised in international naval build programs and provides the best environment for our staff to work safely and efficiently.”

It is ASC’s biggest infrastructure program since the 1987 establishment of the Collins Class submarine facility at Osborne, South Australia.