Australia’s submarine company, ASC, is taking the opportunity to work with Australia’s leading nuclear science organisation, ANSTO, to explore new and innovative career pathways critical to the AUKUS submarine program.

ASC and ANSTO signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) which will help build the specialised skills and expertise needed to support Australia’s future, conventionally armed, nuclear-powered submarines.

The MOU marks another key milestone in building Australia’s future nuclear workforce and unlocks career opportunities for health physicists and nuclear operators. In preparation for AUKUS, ASC has been recruiting nuclear experts from around the world and now has more than 1,000 years of combined nuclear experience in the organisation.

Under the new agreement, ANSTO will support workforce development through technical training, operational experience, and hands-on secondments at its Sydney premises, which has been operating since 1957.

Health physicists will be responsible for maintaining radiological controls and ensuring the protection of people and the environment from potential hazards, while nuclear operators will support safe, secure operations at facilities where radioactive materials are stored.

ASC Chief Nuclear Officer, Mr Neil Crewdson welcomed the ANSTO partnership as a step forward in establishing the nuclear workforce and growing sovereign industrial capability.

“With ANSTO’s support, we’re creating opportunities for Australians to step into critical roles that uphold the highest standards of nuclear safety and operational excellence,” Neil said.

Group Executive ANSTO Dr Miles Apperley said the MOU would help build a skilled, sovereign workforce.

“This MoU reflects ANSTO’s ongoing and evolving commitment to supporting Australia’s nuclear-powered submarine capability by sharing our deep operational experience,” Dr Apperley said.

Health physicists and nuclear operators will commence secondments at ANSTO’s Sydney premises in early 2026.

Editor’s notes:

ASC has proudly served as Australia’s submarine builder and sustainer for 40 years. ASC built Australia’s Collins Class submarines and now maintains and upgrades them, while providing in-operation service and support.

In March 2024, ASC was selected as the Australian Government’s Sovereign Submarine Partner to sustain and, together with BAE Systems, jointly build conventionally armed, nuclear-powered submarines at Osborne, known as SSN-AUKUS.

At Henderson Shipyard in Western Australia, ASC will deliver sustainment services for Australia’s future Virginia Class and SSN-AUKUS submarines. At the Osborne Naval Shipyard in South Australia, ASC, in partnership with BAE Systems, will build Australia’s sovereign SSN-AUKUS submarines.

Media contact:

Alison McMeekin
Mobile: +61 (0) 402 200 311
Email: [email protected]

Photo: ASC and ANSTO team members at ANSTO’s OPAL Reactor, Lucas Heights (Sydney).

The Board of ASC Pty Ltd (ASC) is pleased to announce the appointment of Mr Alex Walsh as Acting Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of ASC.

Currently serving as ASC’s Chief Nuclear and Capability Officer and Chief Operating Officer Multi-Class Sustainment Delivery, Mr Walsh brings a unique mix of global executive experience across defence and nuclear industries to the role. He has held several senior roles at ASC, including General Manager of Engineering, and is currently focused on the Multi-Class Sustainment Delivery.

Mr Walsh previously held executive positions at Sellafield Limited—the UK government entity responsible for the Sellafield nuclear site—serving as Executive Project Manager and Executive Manager of Engineering. He also held leadership roles at BAE Systems as Head of Nuclear Construction and Head of Nuclear Safety Engineering.

Mr Walsh will succeed Mr Stuart Whiley AM, who has served at the helm of ASC since 2014 through a transformative period. Mr Whiley commenced at ASC at the start of the Collins Class program more than 35 years ago and has played an instrumental role in establishing Australia’s sovereign capability.

Mr Walsh will formally commence as Acting CEO on 12 December 2025.

Quotes attributable to ASC Chair Bruce Carter AO:

“Alex brings deep organisational knowledge and extensive nuclear engineering experience that will support the ASC Board and executive leadership in transitioning ASC to a multi-platform, nuclear-capable organisation. He previously worked at ASC from February 2013 to October 2014 and then rejoined ASC in January 2022,” Mr Carter said.

“Stuart has continued to demonstrate his unwavering commitment and dedication to ASC. We sincerely thank him for his outstanding leadership and more than 35 years of service to the organisation.”

Media contact:

Damon Hunt
Mobile: +61 (0) 409 079 887
Email: [email protected]

Australia’s submarine company, ASC, together with American submarine manufacturers General Dynamics Electric Boat and HII Newport News Shipbuilding, is proud to announce that HIFraser is the first Australian business to qualify for the Virginia class submarine supply chain through a gateway program enabled by the Australian Submarine Agency (ASA).

To accelerate the integration of Australian businesses into the Virginia class submarine supply chain and support construction of Virginia Class submarines in the United States, the US Government and ASA established the Defence Industry Vendor Qualification (DIVQ) program.

Through DIVQ, ASC is working with an Australian-based team from General Dynamics Electric Boat and HII Newport News Shipbuilding to fast-track qualification for Australian businesses to supply parts for the world-class Virginia class submarines, including valves, mechanical assemblies, castings, pipe fittings, machined parts, and electrical components.

HIFraser is the first Australian business to achieve qualification by meeting the rigorous engineering, quality, and security benchmarks demanded by the United States.

Qualification enables HIFraser to compete for contracts to supply a range of valves for the submarines – the world’s most advanced conventionally armed, nuclear-powered attack submarines, and the first of their kind to join the Royal Australian Navy’s fleet.

ASC Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Stuart Whiley, congratulated HIFraser:

 

“HIFraser’s achievement is a significant milestone for Australian industry and demonstrates the capability and quality we can deliver to the AUKUS partnership,” Stuart said.

“Through DIVQ, we are opening doors for Australian businesses to participate in one of the most advanced defence programs in the world, creating opportunities that will endure for decades.”

Debora Fortkamp, Chief Strategy Officer, said:

“HIFraser is proud to play a key role in strengthening Australia’s sovereign capability through the DIVQ program. By meeting stringent qualification standards, we reinforce our commitment to excellence in critical systems, ensuring our expertise delivers lasting value across the AUKUS supply chain.”

Several other Australian businesses are in the final stages of qualification under DIVQ which will allow them to join HIFraser and compete for contracts to supply into the Virginia class submarine program.

Building on these early successes, ASA and ASC are working with the US and UK to establish additional DIVQ projects. These will enable Australian industry to provide parts, repairs and services across all three AUKUS partners.

Australian businesses interested in supply chain opportunities can learn more here.

Editor’s notes:

In March 2024, ASC was selected as the Australian Government’s Sovereign Submarine Partner to sustain and, together with BAE Systems, jointly build conventionally armed, nuclear-powered submarines at Osborne, known as SSN-AUKUS.

In March 2025, the Australian Government released Australia’s AUKUS Submarine Industry Strategy, which identifies five lines of implementation effort including “integrating into UK and US supply chains through qualification of Australian suppliers”. The DIVQ program is a key activity under the Strategy.

 

Media contacts:

ASC

Damon Hunt

Mobile: +61 (0) 409 079 887

Email: [email protected]

HIFraser

Debora Fortkamp

Mobile: +61(0) 421 331 403

Email: [email protected]

Image caption:

HIFraser Operations Director, Electric Boat AUKUS Supply Chain Program Manager, HIFraser General Manager – Defence, HIFraser Chief Strategy Officer, HII Manager – Supply Chain Procurement 2, and HII Manager – Supply Chain Procurement 3, ASC General Manager – Supply Chain Strategy & Oversight, Australian Submarine Agency First Assistant Director General SSN Construction, ASC AIC Manager – Multiclass Sustainment, and ASC Head of Supply Chain Strategy & Industry Capability.

Image captured at Indo Pacific in Sydney earlier this month.

Australia’s sovereign submarine partner, ASC, and shipbuilder Austal have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to collaborate on additive manufacturing (AM) technologies and workforce development, marking a significant step forward in strengthening Australia’s sovereign naval capability.

Signed at the 2025 Indo Pacific International Maritime Exposition in Sydney, the partnership will advance the use of cutting-edge 3D printing in shipbuilding and submarine sustainment, strengthening Australia’s domestic AM supply chain to support both the Collins Class and US-built Virginia Class submarines.

It will also support workforce development through training and upskilling in advanced manufacturing technologies.

ASC Chief Capability Officer Danielle Bull welcomed the partnership, and said it reflected the companies’ shared commitment to innovation and sovereign capability.

“Additive manufacturing offers transformative potential for Australia’s maritime industry — enabling faster production, improved part performance, and greater flexibility in shipbuilding, maintenance and sustainment,” Danielle said.

“At ASC, we are already investigating ways to further integrate AM into our sustainment operations. This partnership with Austal will accelerate our efforts to scale these capabilities and embed AM into the broader Australian supply chain, improving resilience, reducing lead times, and enhancing the performance and maintainability of critical components.”

Austal USA’s Advanced Technologies division has been at the forefront of AM adoption, operating the U.S. Navy’s Additive Manufacturing Center of Excellence (AM CoE) in collaboration with BlueForge Alliance. The facility supports the qualification and scaling of AM parts for defence applications, including submarine platforms.

Austal Chief Technology Officer Glenn Callow highlighted Austal’s journey and approach to Additive Manufacturing.

“This partnership builds on our long-term investments into advanced manufacturing,” Glenn said.

“As early as 2020, Austal has worked with partners to align 3D printing technologies with the demands of its maritime customers. With this new partnership, we will continue efforts to uplift Australia’s shipbuilding and sustainment capability across the supply chain.”

Don Hairston, Austal USA’s Vice President for Submarines and Advanced Technologies said Austal USA was excited to embark on the collaboration.

“It represents a tremendous opportunity for the AM CoE to share the knowledge, capabilities, and experience – our collective ‘lessons learned’ – with Austal Australia, ASC, and their AM partners,” Don said.

“Together, we’re pushing the boundaries to build faster, more resilient worldwide supply chains for defence.”

The MoU aligns with broader defence initiatives to enhance sovereign capability and ensure Australia remains at the forefront of maritime innovation.

Editor’s notes:

About ASC:

ASC has proudly served as Australia’s submarine builder and sustainer for 40 years. ASC built Australia’s Collins Class submarines and now maintains and upgrades them, while providing in-operation service and support. In March 2024, ASC was selected as the Australian Government’s Sovereign Submarine Partner to sustain and, together with BAE Systems, jointly build conventionally armed, nuclear-powered submarines at Osborne, known as SSN AUKUS.

For more information: www.asc.com.au.

About Austal

Austal is Australia’s strategic shipbuilder and defence prime contractor designing, constructing and sustaining some of the world’s most advanced commercial and defence vessels. In its 37 years of operations, Austal has built more than 350 vessels for 122 commercial and defence operators in 59 countries. Austal is Australia’s largest defence exporter and first ASX-listed shipbuilder. The Company has industry-leading shipyards in Australia, the United States of America, Philippines and Vietnam, and service centres worldwide. Austal delivers iconic monohull, catamaran and trimaran commercial and defence vessel platforms, in aluminium and steel.  

For more information: https://www.austal.com/.

Media contacts:

ASC

Damon Hunt

Mobile: +61 (0)409 079 887

Email: [email protected]

Austal

Cameron Morse

Mobile: +61 (0)433 886 871

Email: [email protected]

Australia’s submarine company, ASC, has selected Siemens’ industry-leading software to help sustain the nation’s Collins Class submarines.

The Collins Class sustainment program (CCSM) – vital to maintaining Australia’s sovereign submarine capability into the 2040s – will use Teamcenter^® software from the Siemens Xcelerator portfolio.

The Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) software will streamline product design data development by creating a digital thread – a single source of truth – throughout the design process.

In choosing Teamcenter, ASC joins other leading global submarine and naval shipbuilders across the US, UK, Europe and Asia already relying on Siemens’ solutions.

 

ASC Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Stuart Whiley welcomed the announcement.

“For four decades, ASC has proudly led Australia’s submarine build and sustainment efforts – delivering more than 1,000 enhancements to the fleet of six Collins Class submarines,” Stuart said.

“With Siemens’ software, ASC is equipped to implement future upgrades that will preserve and strengthen Australia’s sovereign submarine capability.”

 

Peter Halliday, CEO of Siemens Australia and New Zealand and member of the AiGroup Defence Council, welcomed the announcement saying the company has supported major defence programs in Australia and New Zealand for decades.

“We have a long and proud history supporting the region’s major defence programs with Siemens technology behind the scenes enabling our nation’s defence capability,” Peter said.

“We understand the critical connection between advanced technology and software and advanced capability and outcomes. Using industrial software on vital defence programs like CCSM not only strengthens Australia’s sovereign capability – it also drives growth and innovation throughout the supply chain and wider economy.”

Teamcenter integrates PLM, 3D modelling and material and asset management practices from conceptual design to production and through-life support.

This important program will be delivered together with ASC’s implementation partner, professional services firm, Deloitte.

 

Deloitte Australia National Aerospace & Defence Leader, Jesse Sherwood, said Deloitte is incredibly proud to continue working as ASC’s implementation partner.

“Technology, innovation and a modernised workforce is at the heart of ASC’s future as Australia’s sovereign submarine capability, and this program is key to unlocking the technical and engineering capacity and advanced capability needed now and into the future,” Jesse said.

“We recognise ASC’s critical role in training and developing the sovereign design, engineering, manufacturing and sustainment workforce in Australia. It is a privilege to play our role in this crucial nation building endeavour.”

 

Samantha Murray, Vice President and Managing Director Australia and New Zealand, Siemens Digital Industries Software, said she is pleased that Siemens’ software will be an important part of ASC’s digitalisation journey and support Australia’s submarine maintenance and upgrade services.

“It’s a privilege to work with the ASC and provide Australia’s submarine builder and sustainer critical product lifecycle management software which is used in the design, engineering and construction of submarines all over the world,” Samantha said.

“Siemens’ Teamcenter is used to help streamline processes, manage complex product information and improve collaboration across the entire submarine lifecycle – from initial concept to decommissioning.”

 

ASC background

ASC has proudly served as Australia’s submarine builder and sustainer for 40 years. ASC built Australia’s Collins Class submarines and now maintains and upgrades them, while providing in-operation service and support. In March 2024, ASC was selected as the Australian Government’s Sovereign Submarine Partner to sustain and, together with BAE Systems, jointly build conventionally armed, nuclear-powered submarines, known as SSN AUKUS. ASC will also deliver sustainment services for Australia’s future Virginia Class and SSN AUKUS submarines.

 

Background – Siemens software and submarine programs

Siemens’ Teamcenter software is part of the Siemens Xcelerator portfolio which brings together and integrates the entire Siemens Digital Industries Software portfolio with technologies, solutions and services that connect to existing Information Technology, Operational Technology and Engineering Technology environments. It covers and integrates mechanical, embedded software, electronics, simulation, manufacturing, operations, app development and IoT.

 

Siemens’ Teamcenter is used in leading submarine programs to enable and support numerous areas –

Centralised Data Management:

Teamcenter acts as a single source of truth for all submarine-related data, including designs, engineering specifications, manufacturing information, and maintenance records. 

Configuration Management:

It helps manage the complex configurations of submarines, tracking changes and ensuring that all components and systems are properly integrated and documented. 

Collaboration and Communication:

Teamcenter facilitates collaboration among different teams involved in the submarine project, including design engineers, manufacturing teams, and support personnel. 

Digital Mockups and Simulation:

The software enables the creation of digital mockups of the submarine, allowing engineers to visualize the design, identify potential interferences, and optimize the placement of components before physical construction. 

Supply Chain Management:

Teamcenter integrates with the supply chain, allowing shipyards to manage their suppliers, track materials, and ensure timely delivery of components. 

Lifecycle Management:

It supports the entire submarine lifecycle, from design and engineering to manufacturing, operation, maintenance, and eventual decommissioning. 

 

Media enquiries:

Siemens

Krupa Uthappa

Phone: +61 427 601 578

Email: [email protected]

ASC

Damon Hunt

Phone: +61 409 079 887

Email: [email protected]

 

Image Caption:

L-R. Rob Hillard, APAC Managing Partner, Deloitte Consulting; Rebecca Livesey, Chief Strategy and Transformation Officer, ASC; Stuart Whiley, Managing Director and CEO, ASC; Peter Halliday, CEO, Siemens Australia; Bas Kuper, Senior Vice President, Siemens Software Asia Pacific.

 

Australia’s sovereign submarine partners ASC and BAE Systems today announced a new-look Industry Capability Network (ICN) Portal for Australian businesses seeking to participate in the Nuclear-powered Submarine Program (NPS). 

The NPS ICN Portal information has been transferred from the Australian Submarine Agency (ASA) and is now jointly managed by the sovereign submarine partners. The portal provides a central hub for suppliers to register their interest, showcase their capabilities, and access upcoming opportunities across the program.

Under ASC and BAE Systems’ joint management, the portal will deliver continuity for the hundreds of companies already registered, while opening new pathways for small and medium enterprises to qualify for work packages in one of the most complex industrial programs in Australia’s history.

ASC Chief Executive Officer & Managing Director, Stuart Whiley:

“This portal is a gateway for Australian industry to play a direct role in our nation’s nuclear-powered submarines. By working with our partners at BAE Systems, we are ensuring suppliers have a clear, simple, and continuous pathway to engage with the program and be part of Australia’s sovereign submarine capability.”

BAE Systems Australia Chief Executive Officer, Craig Lockhart:

“Australian industry will be at the heart of delivering the SSN-AUKUS submarine enterprise. The transition of the ICN Portal ensures Australian businesses can register once and remain connected as opportunities grow, giving them the confidence to invest in the skills, standards and innovation needed to succeed in global submarine supply chains.”

About the Portal

The ICN Portal is the trusted industry engagement platform across Australian defence projects. The transition of the ICN Portal information to ASC and BAE Systems ensures suppliers do not need to re-register, providing continuity and confidence as the program accelerates. The portal will continue to be the single source of truth for industry opportunities, expressions of interest, and supplier engagement.

http://ssn-aukus-build.icn.org.au

Media contacts:

ASC: Alison McMeekin:

E: [email protected]

M: 0402200311

BAE Systems Australia: Richard Sproull

E: [email protected]

M: 0460434397

A comprehensive ASC and US shipbuilder program enabled by the Australian Submarine Agency (ASA) that qualifies Australian businesses for the AUKUS supply chain has drawn significant interest from around the country.

The US government and the ASA collaborated to establish the Defence Industry Vendor Qualification (DIVQ) Program. In the early “waves” of the program, the US and Australia have partnered to bring together ASC and the primary American submarine manufacturers General Dynamics Electric Boat and HII Newport News Shipbuilding.

These businesses, supported by ASA, will collaborate to fast-track qualification for local manufacturers seeking to supply parts for the US Virginia Class submarine build program.

Australian businesses have lodged nearly 170 expressions of interest to supply dozens of different parts to support the US submarine industrial base, including valves, castings, mechanical assemblies, pipe fittings, forgings, and machined parts.

Several businesses are in the final stages of qualification under DIVQ, and it’s expected they will be able to compete for contracts within months

Many more opportunities will be opened to Defence industry as the program continues to deliver against its objectives, with further details to be published on the Industry Capability Network (ICN).

The US Navy’s Virginia Class submarines are the world’s most advanced conventionally armed, nuclear-powered attack submarines, and will be the first such submarines to join the Royal Australian Navy’s fleet.

Building on the early waves of DIVQ, ASA and ASC are working with both the US and the UK to establish other DIVQ projects. These projects will open the door for Australian industry to provide parts, repairs and services for all three AUKUS partners.

ASC Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer Stuart Whiley said the DIVQ program is great news for Australian manufacturers and service providers.

“With 40 years’ experience building and sustaining Australia’s Collins Class submarines, ASC has built a trusted network of skilled suppliers that delivers mission-critical capability to the Royal Australian Navy,” Stuart said.

“In doing so, we have helped grow sovereign skills, advanced technologies, and industrial resilience for the nation.”

Australian businesses interested in participating or finding out more are encouraged to contact ASC here. The next wave of supplier opportunities will be uploaded to the ICN here.

Editor’s notes:

In March 2024, ASC was selected as the Australian Government’s Sovereign Submarine Partner to sustain and, together with BAE Systems, jointly build conventionally armed, nuclear-powered submarines at Osborne, known as SSN AUKUS.

In March 2025, the Australian Government released Australia’s AUKUS Submarine Industry Strategy, which identifies five lines of implementation effort including “integrating into UK and US supply chains through qualification of Australian suppliers”. The DIVQ program is a key activity under the Strategy.

For more information, please contact:

Damon Hunt, Head of Corporate Communications and Media: [email protected]. 

Australia’s submarine company, ASC, is pleased to welcome the appointment of Mr Jim McDowell to the ASC Board.

Mr McDowell will commence on the Board as the Deputy Chair and will succeed Mr Bruce Carter AO as the Chair of the ASC Board when Mr Carter’s term ends on 31 December 2025.   

Mr Carter has been a Director of ASC since 2010 and Chair since 2012, guiding ASC through a period of profound transformation and growth.

Under his leadership, ASC implemented the recommendations of the Coles Review, leading to a dramatic improvement in Collins Class submarine availability and reliability, ultimately exceeding international benchmarks. He also led the company during the construction of the three Air Warfare Destroyers and played a central role in the transition to Australia’s future nuclear-powered submarine capability. His commitment to sovereign capability, innovation, and workforce development has left a lasting legacy at ASC.

Mr McDowell brings more than 40 years of experience working in the defence, aerospace and shipbuilding industries.

Before joining the ASC Board, he served as Deputy Secretary of the Naval Shipbuilding and Sustainment Group in the Australian Department of Defence. In this role, Jim was responsible for the acquisition and sustainment of the Royal Australian Navy’s surface fleet and Army Watercraft, and the sustainment of the Collins Class submarines.

Prior to his time in Defence, Jim held CEO roles with Nova Systems, Department of the Premier and Cabinet in South Australia and BAE Systems’ operations in Australia and Saudi Arabia.

Jim has held numerous non-executive appointments, including as chair of the Australian Nuclear Science and Technology Organisation and the Trusted Autonomous Systems Cooperative Research Centre; a director of Austal, Codan, the Australian Strategic Policy Institute and the Adelaide Football Club; and Chancellor of the University of South Australia. He is currently a member of the Adelaide University Transition Council.

ASC Chair Bruce Carter AO welcomed Mr McDowell to the ASC Board.

“It’s a great pleasure to welcome Jim to the ASC Board,” Mr Carter said.

“With Jim’s wealth of defence sector knowledge and proven leadership experience, including most recently overseeing the Royal Australian Navy’s surface fleet and Collins Class submarines, we’re in an even stronger position to support our people, our partners, and the Navy we proudly serve.”

Mr McDowell’s appointment is effective immediately.

For more information, please contact:

Damon Hunt, Head of Corporate Communications and Media: [email protected] 

Australian fire safety leader Wormald will continue its multi-decade-long contribution to the Collins Class submarine fleet, after ASC awarded the company a new contract.

The full six-year contract, worth more than $5 million, will extend Wormald’s critical role in delivering and supporting advanced fire suppression and safety systems to the Collins fleet for more than 40 years.

Wormald’s first contact with ASC was in 1985/86 – at the concept and the beginning of the Collins Class submarine design and build.

Wormald International was a key founding partner in the Australian Submarine Corporation (ASC), alongside Kockums AB, Chicago Bridge and Iron, and the Australian Industry Development Corporation.

ASC was established in 1985 to design and build the Collins Class submarines for the Royal Australian Navy. Wormald’s expertise in fire protection and life safety systems was crucial throughout the project.

While Wormald is no longer directly involved within ASC, the company continues to support ASC and the Collins Class submarine fleet with cutting edge fire protection and life safety systems.

ASC Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer Stuart Whiley welcomed the announcement.

“The Collins Class submarines remain one of Australia’s most potent and strategically important defence assets that will continue to safeguard our sovereignty well into the future,” Stuart said.

“Long-standing suppliers like Wormald play a vital role in that mission, delivering advanced fire safety systems that keep the men and women in the Royal Australian Navy, and our boats, safe.

“We welcome this new contract as a continuation of a trusted partnership that strengthens Australia’s submarine capability.”
Wormald Australia – Director – Defence & Marine, Jon Buckley also welcomed the announcement and long-term contract award.

“It is an honor and privilege to continue our 40-year long-standing support role with ASC to deliver mission-critical fire protection, life safety engineering systems, and asset protection solutions for the Collins Class submarines,” Jon said.

“Wormald takes great pride in being part of ASC’s highly-skilled and dedicated supply chain, contributing to the protection of those who serve and ensuring one of Australia’s most important defence assets continues to operate at peak performance whenever and wherever it is required.”

Editor’s notes:
ASC has proudly served as Australia’s submarine builder and sustainer for more than 35 years. ASC built Australia’s Collins Class submarines and now maintains and upgrades them, while providing in-operation service and support.

For more information, please contact:

Damon Hunt, Head of Corporate Communications and Media: [email protected] 

ASC is delighted to award Australian maritime manufacturer VEEM a six-year, $65 million contract to continue manufacturing and supplying critical components for Australia’s Collins Class submarines.

VEEM has been supplying ball valves and actuators, manufacturing and supplying bodies and connectors for ball valves, and manufacturing a range of other non-ferrous castings for ASC – including strainer housings, mufflers, and main ballast tank valves – since 1992.

Based in Western Australia, VEEM is the licenced manufacturer and service agent of defence 55 and 44 series valves for Flowserve Flow Control (UK) Ltd, the original equipment manufacturer of the ball valves.

ASC Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer Stuart Whiley welcomed the announcement.

“The six Collins Class submarines are among the most complex and sophisticated defence platforms in operation today, and demand precision and reliability,” Stuart said.

“VEEM has been a key partner to ASC since 1992, supporting our mission to deliver a safe, high-performance and potent capability to the Royal Australian Navy.

“More broadly, ASC is proud to work with Australian businesses, supporting jobs and building a sovereign industrial capability that is critical to the ongoing and future defence of our nation. We look forward to strengthening our partnership with VEEM over the years ahead.”

VEEM Managing Director Mark Miocevich also welcomed the announcement.

“It is important to recognise the enormous amount of effort that the employees of ASC and VEEM contribute every day in negotiating and executing such a critical and complex  in-country manufacturing and service program,” Mark said.

“It is this type of successful collaboration that will underpin the success of the upcoming AUKUS program.”

Editor’s notes:

ASC has proudly served as Australia’s submarine builder and sustainer for more than 35 years. ASC built Australia’s Collins Class submarines and now maintains and upgrades them, while providing in-operation service and support.

In March 2024, ASC was selected as the Australian Government’s Sovereign Submarine Partner to sustain and, together with BAE Systems, jointly build conventionally armed, nuclear-powered submarines at Osborne, known as SSN AUKUS.

At Henderson Shipyard in Western Australia, ASC will deliver sustainment services for Australia’s future Virginia Class and SSN AUKUS submarines.

For more information, please contact:

Damon Hunt, Head of Corporate Communications and Media

[email protected].

 

Image courtesy of VEEM – manufacturing process in Canning Vale, WA

On behalf of the Australian Submarine Agency, Australia’s submarine company, ASC, is working with US industry partners to uplift Australian businesses into the AUKUS supply chain.

Through the Defence Industry Vendor Qualification (DIVQ) Program, ASC, General Dynamics Electric Boat and HII are seeking expressions of interest from Australian businesses that manufacture a range of parts, including – but not limited to – valves, castings, mechanical assemblies and fittings.

Businesses interested in participating in the DIVQ Program are invited to submit expressions of interest and capability statements to ASC. When suppliers successfully complete DIVQ, they will be qualified to supply Virginia Class submarine parts.

It’s the first time the Australian and US submarine builders have collaborated to qualify suppliers for AUKUS, and as the DIVQ Program continues to progress, more businesses in other major product families will be targeted for qualification.

ASC Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer Stuart Whiley welcomed the collaboration between ASC, General Dynamics Electric Boat and HII.

“This is great news for Australian businesses that want to join the AUKUS supply chain,” Stuart said.

“It’s also good news for the US. We’re not only building sovereign capability; we are also expanding trilateral supply chain capacity and resilience.

“The parts may be used for both build and sustainment, which means businesses could be part of the AUKUS supply chain for years to come.”

More information for interested businesses can be found here.

 

Editor’s notes:

ASC has proudly served as Australia’s submarine builder and sustainer for more than 35 years. ASC built Australia’s Collins Class submarines and now

maintains and upgrades them, while providing in-operation service and support.

 

In March 2024, ASC was selected as the Australian Government’s Sovereign Submarine Partner to sustain and, together with BAE Systems, jointly build conventionally armed, nuclear-powered submarines at Osborne, known as SSN AUKUS.

 

At Henderson Shipyard in Western Australia, ASC will deliver sustainment services for Australia’s future Virginia Class and SSN AUKUS submarines.

Media contact:

Damon Hunt
Head of Corporate Communications and Media
M: 0409 079 887
E: [email protected]

Alison McMeekin
Senior Media Advisor
M: 0402 200 311
E: [email protected]

Image: US Virginia Class submarine. Image courtesy Defense Visual Information Distribution Service.

ASC’s support for Australian businesses has gone from strength to strength in the past three years, supporting local jobs and building sovereign industrial capability.

 

Latest figures show the number of Indigenous-owned businesses that ASC has contracted to deliver services in the past three years has more than doubled, from nine to 22.

 

As well, ASC’s spending with Indigenous businesses increased by 400 per cent in 2024, compared with 2022

 

Indigenous-owned business Intract Australia, which has more than 100 full-time Indigenous employees across Australia, was recently
contracted to manage structural repairs and remediation works on two pedestrian bridges at ASC’s submarine yard at Henderson, in WA.

 

Worth more than $800,000, it’s the largest contract ever awarded by ASC to an Indigenous supplier.

 

ASC Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer Stuart Whiley encouraged Australian businesses interested in supplying to ASC to register via the company’s Sovereign Supply Chain Hub.

 

“ASC has a long-standing commitment to supporting local jobs and growing Australian industry capability, and we’re proud of recent achievements to significantly increase our investment with Indigenous-owned businesses,” Stuart said.

 

“We encourage all Indigenous businesses to consider registering their interest with us, so we learn about their capabilities and seek to identify potential collaboration opportunities.

 

“Simply visit our Sovereign Supply Chain Hub – ASC’s one-stop-shop for Australian small-to-medium enterprises that are interested in participating in the Collins Class sustainment program and future programs.”

 

Intract Australia National Business Development Manager Luke Taylor said:

 

“Meaningful partnerships with businesses like ASC allow Intract Australia to grow our workforce and capabilities across the country, and this job in WA has allowed us to grow our capability in the West,” Luke said.

 

Works are expected to be completed on both bridges by the middle of the year.

 

For more information about ASC’s Sovereign Supply Chain Hub, click here.

 

Editor’s notes:

 

ASC has proudly served as Australia’s submarine builder and sustainer for more than 35 years. ASC built Australia’s Collins Class submarines and now

maintains and upgrades them, while providing in-operation service and support.

 

In March 2024, ASC was selected as the Australian Government’s Sovereign Submarine Partner to sustain and, together with BAE Systems, jointly build conventionally armed, nuclear-powered submarines at Osborne, known as SSN AUKUS.

 

At Henderson Shipyard in Western Australia, ASC will deliver sustainment services for Australia’s future Virginia Class and SSN AUKUS submarines.

 

Media contact:

Damon Hunt
Head of Corporate Communications and Media
M: 0409 079 887
E: [email protected]

Alison McMeekin
Senior Media Advisor
M: 0402 200 311
E: [email protected]

Image: Intract Australia Project Manager, Aaron Coleman, and Intract Australia Site Supervisor, Mick Dean, standing on the ‘skybridge’, one of the bridges currently being refurbished at ASC’s Henderson site.

ASC is delighted to welcome 81 apprentices and graduates to the company’s submarine workforce in South Australia and Western Australia.

Forty-one future submarine builders and sustainers have commenced four-year, full-time trades-based apprenticeships, bringing the total number of apprentices to 144.

At Osborne in SA, 20 apprentices aged 17-36 spent part of their first day touring ASC’s submarine yard, where the company’s highly-skilled workforce built, and now sustains, Australia’s Collins Class submarines.

In WA, 21 apprentices aged 17-30 joined the workforce – the highest ever apprentice intake in the west.

Of the 41 new apprentices, 12 are commencing electrical, 12 are undertaking fabrication, and 17 are pursuing mechanical trades.

This year apprentices were selected from a record-breaking 1,300 applications.

ASC has also welcomed 40 graduates in 2025 – future submarine engineers and designers, project managers, cyber security specialists, and people and culture professionals.

ASC Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer Stuart Whiley said he was pleased so many people were choosing a career in submarine build and sustainment.

“We are working tirelessly to grow and develop our workforce that is required to continue sustaining Australia’s Collins Class submarines, and support the Australian Government’s mission to sustain and jointly build conventionally armed, nuclear-powered submarines,” Stuart said.

“The record-breaking WA apprentice intake is especially pleasing – sustainment work on visiting US and UK submarines will soon ramp up, and eventually our workforce will be responsible for full sustainment services for Australia’s future Virginia Class and SSN-AUKUS submarines.

“As someone who has spent the best part of their life in a submarine yard, I can attest to the rewarding career ahead for our newest recruits. And for those people who missed out in this year’s apprenticeships and graduate positions, be sure to look out for future expressions of interest – we will be recruiting hundreds more in the coming years.”

Some of these apprentices and graduates are participating in the Jobs for Subs program announced by the Australian Government in 2024, which will see around 200 additional entry-level personnel join ASC over the next two years.

Expressions of interest for the next intake of apprentices at both the SA and WA submarine yards will open mid-year. Applications for the next intake of graduate roles open within weeks, and students in their final year of university studies are encouraged to apply.

Editor’s notes:

In March 2024, ASC was selected as the Australian Government’s Sovereign Submarine Partner to sustain and, together with BAE Systems, jointly build conventionally armed, nuclear-powered submarines, known as SSN-AUKUS, at Osborne.

At Henderson Shipyard in Western Australia, ASC will deliver sustainment services for Australia’s future Virginia Class and SSN-AUKUS submarines.

ABOUT ASC:
ASC built Australia’s Collins Class submarines and now sustains them, while providing in-operation service and support to deliver world-class availability to the Royal Australian Navy.

Media contact:

Damon Hunt
Head of Corporate Communications and Media
M: 0409 079 887
E: [email protected]

Alison McMeekin
Senior Media Advisor
M: 0402 200 311
E: [email protected]

Image: New ASC apprentices at ASC’s Osborne, SA, site, with ASC Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer Stuart Whiley (front, centre).