The first, HMAS Arafura, is scheduled to be homeported in Cairns in early 2027.

This decision builds on the Albanese Government’s significant investment in the region and recognizes the important role HMAS Cairns plays in supporting national security and the sovereign defense industry.

Homeporting Arafura Class OPVs in Cairns will enhance the Navy’s ability to operate and sustain capability in the north and support engagements across the region.

It will further bolster the established maritime sustainment sector in Cairns, supporting the local economy and jobs and providing further confidence for North Queensland industry to invest in workforce capability and skills.

The Arafura Class OPVs are designed to conduct maritime patrol, surveillance, and response tasks and will work closely with Australian Border Force and regional partners.

This announcement builds on the Albanese Government’s $250 million investment in HMAS Cairns, including expanded berthing capacity and enhanced supporting wharf and landside facilities.

Built for resilience, the wharf has been elevated above surrounding infrastructure to withstand rising king tide levels and ensure it continues to meet Navy operational requirements for decades to come.

Through this project, more than 770 people worked on site, with $67.7 million awarded to local businesses within 125 kilometers of Cairns.

Minister for Defense Industry, Pat Conroy, said: “Northern Australia is central to our Defense strategy and Cairns is an increasingly important hub for Navy operations, sustainment and maritime security.

“Cairns has developed one of Australia’s most capable maritime sustainment and maintenance sectors, making it a natural location to support the future offshore patrol vessel fleet.

“This decision strengthens sovereign industrial capability while creating opportunities for local businesses to support one of Navy’s newest classes of vessels.”

Matt Smith MP, Member for Leichhardt, said: “Since the release of the National Defense Strategy, I have been advocating for the capacity of the Far North.

“The $250 million expanded wharf at HMAS Cairns will see more jobs, more growth, and more security for our region.

“The home porting of at least two Arafura Class OPV’s is an acknowledgement of the capacity of Cairns and the importance of the Far North more broadly.

“Today is a proud day for Cairns as we continue to flex on the national stage.”