Defence News Western Australia

Perth companies land $52M contract to upgrade Defence wharf

Eliza Sayon Sep 3, 2021

2 min read

Perth-based companies Duratec and Ertech have been jointly awarded a $52 million contract to lead an extension and upgrade of the HMAS Stirling Oxley Wharf to service a growing naval fleet.

The wharf project is not only expected to support up to 75 construction jobs but will also be a major win for local businesses. Those within 50km of HMAS Stirling is set to win 93 per cent of all sub-contract packages, which will then help maximise opportunities for local industry.

The project will also provide employment opportunities through the supply chain and off-site manufacturing.

Minister for Defence Industry Melissa Price said the investment in the wharf project was driven by the need to cater for a growing naval fleet due to the Australian Government’s $270 billion investment in Defence capability.

“The new construction works in Perth will support the mooring and berthing of the new Hunter Class Frigates, Arafura Class Offshore Patrol Vessels and other Royal Australian Navy vessels,” Minister Price said.

The Oxley Wharf project is part of a $2.1 billion program that will deliver maritime and landside facilities for the new naval assets.

Works at HMAS Stirling include the design and construction of the 138-metre wharf extension with a 25-metre wide wharf deck supported by tubular steel piles.

“This project will be a great boost to the local economy,” Minister Price said.

“It is a significant win for local businesses and shows the vast array of opportunities stemming from our Government’s investments in shipbuilding in WA.”

Duratec Ertech JV, a joint venture of the two Perth companies, has been appointed as head contractor for the project to extend the wharf.

The Duratec Ertech JV has set an Indigenous workforce target of at least 4 per cent and an Indigenous-owned enterprise sub-contractor target of at least 4 per cent.

Designs for the projects will be finalised in early 2022, with on-site construction to start soon after.

SOURCE: DEPARTMENT OF DEFENCE MEDIA RELEASE

Eliza Sayon

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Eliza is a content producer and editor at Public Spectrum. She is an experienced writer on topics related to the government and to the public, as well as stories that uplift and improve the community.