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The South Australian Liberal government looks forward to the thousands of jobs that will be created in South Australia as a result of the announcement of BAE Systems as the successful tenderer for the $35-billion Future Frigate Program.
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Premier Steven Marshall said that South Australia will be the beneficiary of this $35 billion decision with many local businesses directly engaged in the supply chain supporting the SEA 5000 construction process.
"This $35-billion program will deliver unprecedented economic benefit to the South Australian economy, with over 100 businesses already pre-qualifying with BAE to be part of the project," said the Premier.
The SEA 5000 Future Frigate project is poised to deliver 1,500 direct local jobs, in addition to the 600 jobs needed for the redevelopment of the Osborne South Shipyards and opportunities through the supply chain. However, the complexity and scale of the project means that there are significant challenges that exist in ensuring that South Australia has the skilled local workforce necessary to deliver this project.
“Apprenticeships are vital to building a skilled supply of workers for industry and this has never been more important as we move to a more diversified economy and to capitalise on major, long-term national defence contracts awarded to South Australia," the Premier said.
The impact of the BAE's shipbuilding program is echoed by Ai Group Chief Executive, Innes Willox who said that "the project design is an innovative way to get the job done and to build domestic capability. A significantly upgraded ASC and more developed domestic supply chains will be a great outcome for Australia. These benefits will flow not only to the Defence sector but beyond to the broader Australian industry and community. The Prime Minister's announcement that BAE has pre-qualified over 500 Australian businesses (including 100 in South Australia) is a welcome development for the supply chain around the country."
