From docks to doctrine: The race to build Australia’s ‘nuclear-ready’ AUKUS backbone
May 08, 2026
Chris Waywell, Rob Sansbury, and Robert Fogel discuss getting infrastructure ready for submarines in this Defence Connect Special Report
Australia’s transition to nuclear-powered submarines under AUKUS imposes vast demands on ports and naval infrastructure. Canberra must rapidly upgrade bases and shipyards to handle US Virginia Class and future SSN-AUKUS submarines, a task estimated at tens of billions of dollars and spanning into the late 2030s.
Government and industry planning documents emphasise the scale: the Albanese government has earmarked $8 billion for HMAS Stirling upgrades and $12 billion for a new Henderson Defence Precinct, with an initial $3.9 billion down payment on a $30 billion nuclear-capable build hall at Osborne, South Australia.
Key priorities include deepening docks, building secure maintenance facilities and installing radiation‐safe systems. Australian and allied regulators (under the new Naval Nuclear Power Safety Act 2024 and existing Australian Radiation Protection and Nuclear Safety Act) will enforce stringent nuclear safety and non-proliferation standards.
Chris Waywell, Rob Sansbury, and Robert Fogel discuss getting infrastructure ready for submarines in this Defence Connect special report.
