In a recent article published in The Australian, Alex Walsh, ASC Chief Nuclear and Capability Officer, shares valuable insight into the growing opportunities for Australian businesses through the Defence Industry Vendor Qualification (DIVQ) Program:

AUKUS is unlocking the most significant defence industry opportunity in Australia’s history – and ASC is at the heart of it.

For 40 years, we’ve built and sustained the nation’s submarine capability, developing unmatched expertise, world-class know-how, and a trusted supply chain network.

ASC is the only prime in Australia with this capability – our deep experience has put us in the best position to sustain Australia’s sovereign Virginia Class Submarines, help build and sustain the AUKUS submarine fleet, as well as build the workforce and supply chain required to support it.

To maximise AUKUS opportunities for Australian businesses, the US Government and the Australian Submarine Agency (ASA) have partnered to deliver the Defence Industry Vendor Qualification (DIVQ) Program. Through DIVQ, the ASA selected ASC to work with US submarine manufacturers General Dynamics Electric Boat and Huntington Ingalls Industries (HII) Newport News Shipbuilding to fast-track qualification of Australian businesses. Once qualified, these Australian suppliers will be able to bid for contracts in the US supply chain, and the first opportunities are already emerging in the Virginia Class submarine construction program.

A number of local businesses are on the verge of being qualified and able to compete for contracts. This is just the beginning. More opportunities for defence industry are on the way, with the ASA and ASC working with both the US and the UK to establish future iterations of DIVQ, which will open the door for an increasing number of Australian businesses to provide parts, repairs and services for all three AUKUS partners.

These programs are a game-changer for Australian industry. At the same time, they are helping strengthen Australia’s sovereign capability, while building a robust trilateral submarine industrial base that increases AUKUS supply chain resilience.

This year, ASC celebrates 40 years as Australia’s sovereign submarine builder and sustainer. We will continue to sustain and upgrade the Collins Class submarines, while building the sovereign supply chain and workforce that will support Australia’s transition to nuclear-powered submarines.

Apprentices and graduates joining ASC today have a career for life – a chance to build a challenging, thrilling and inspiring career while contributing to one of Australia’s most important national endeavours.

We recognise great work is only possible when our people thrive, both personally and professionally. That’s why ASC supports flexible work arrangements, encourages lifelong learning, and fosters a culture where balance, wellbeing, and family are valued. When you join ASC, you don’t just join a team – you become part of a community that cares for its people with the same unwavering commitment it brings to Australia’s submarines.

For those interested in a career at ASC, check out our careers portal. For Australian businesses that want to take part in the opportunity of a lifetime, stay tuned to updates published on the Industry Capability Network (ICN).