Applications open in WA for submarine sustainment contracts

The Western Australian Government has announced that Australian and Western Australian industry can now apply to qualify for work for Virginia Class submarine sustainment.

The commencement of Submarine Rotational Force – West (SRF‑West) from 2027 is creating new supply chain opportunities for local businesses. It will expand the existing role of the DIVQ Program, which already enables Australian businesses to compete for opportunities in the Virginia Class supply chain supporting submarine construction in the US.

Through the DIVQ Program, which was established by the Australian Submarine Agency in partnership with the US Government, ASC is helping Australian industry lift its systems, processes and technical capability to meet US standards and requirements.

Australian companies from WA, NSW and Victoria have already successfully qualified through the program, with dozens more progressing through the national qualification program.

The expansion into sustainment work in Western Australia represents a new opportunity for Australian businesses to secure long-term, high-value work supporting the operational readiness of these submarines in-country.

“AUKUS is opening the door to major new defence work, and we want Western Australian businesses to be first through it,” said Premier and Defence Industries Minister Roger Cook. “The expanded DIVQ Program puts WA companies in prime position to support the sustainment of Virginia Class submarines at HMAS Stirling. AUKUS is already delivering jobs and manufacturing opportunities for Western Australians, and SRF‑West will only accelerate that momentum.”

Opportunities for both the Virginia Class sustainment and build supply chains can be found here.

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