Developments

A significant milestone has been reached at Cairncross Dockyard Brisbane, with the project formally recognised as a prescribed project under Queensland’s approvals framework.

This designation enables a more streamlined planning process and supports the timely redevelopment of a strategically important maritime sustainment site.

The project is focused on reactivating Cairncross as a modern shipyard capable of supporting Defence, allied and commercial fleets. Its scale, location and existing infrastructure position it to play a meaningful role in addressing growing demand for sustainment capacity in Australia.

Workforce development is a core part of this effort. Engagement is underway with TAFE Queensland, universities and industry partners to align training pathways with how modern shipyards are delivered and operated. The focus is on practical, delivery-based training that supports trades, engineering and advanced manufacturing capability.

The prescribed project declaration provides greater certainty for delivery. It allows coordination across government while maintaining environmental and planning standards, helping reduce delays that typically affect large infrastructure projects.

Early engagement from stakeholders across Australia and key partner nations, including the United States, Japan and South Korea, reflects the level of interest in expanding sustainment capability in the region.

For ASSIST Maritime, Cairncross provides a live environment where a more consistent approach to sustainment infrastructure can be applied and refined. This includes how infrastructure is designed, delivered and supported by supply chains and workforce capability.

Cairncross is not just a redevelopment. It is part of a broader effort to strengthen Australia’s ability to sustain its maritime capability more reliably, efficiently and at the scale required.