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Posted by Allen Newton
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10 June, 2026
NORTHERN Australia–based fleet‑management company Norship will play a key role in expanding Cairns as a major defence support base.
The Queensland state government has awarded Norship $5.37 million to expand naval certified infrastructure to support defence operations in Northern Australia.
The money, part of a $180.6 million Sovereign Industry Development Fund, is to upgrade and expand Norship’s naval-certified servicing yard at Portsmith, reinforcing Cairns’ role as a key regional maintenance centre for defence operations.
A state government media release said the project will deliver expanded wharf infrastructure, new defence-certified hardstand areas and modern workshop facilities, increasing capacity to support current and future naval fleets operating in Northern Australia.
“The investment will provide for growing demand for maritime sustainment, complementing other infrastructure such as the proposed Common User Facility.
"It’s expected to create 63 local jobs - 17 during construction and 46 ongoing operational positions,” the release said.
Queensland deputy premier Jarrod Bleijie said the Sovereign Industry Development Fund was focused upon delivery and backing investment‑ready projects that would deliver real sovereign capability, secure jobs and long‑term economic value.
“This investment reinforces Cairns’ growing role in Australia’s defence network, cementing Queensland’s position as a leader in the sector,” Mr Bleijie said.
“Cairns has a critical role to play as a regional maintenance centre, and this investment reinforces its position in Australia’s defence future.
“We’re backing investment-ready projects that will deliver real capability, support Australian defence priorities and create high-value jobs for Queenslanders.
“This project will expand maritime sustainment capacity in Northern Australia, ensuring defence assets can be maintained closer to where they operate.
“By reducing reliance on southern shipyards, we’re improving readiness while supporting local jobs, businesses and supply chains in Far North Queensland.”
Norship CEO Olav Groot said the investment would enable the company to expand their maritime sustainment capability and support the growing needs of defence in Australia.
“By upgrading our Cairns facility, we are strengthening our ability to maintain and service naval vessels closer to where they operate, improving efficiency and responsiveness,” Mr Groot said.
“This project will not only enhance sovereign maritime capability, but also deliver long-term benefits for the local workforce, suppliers and the broader Far North Queensland economy.
“We are proud to partner with the Queensland government to deliver critical infrastructure that supports Australia’s defence priorities and positions Cairns as a key centre for maritime sustainment.”
Construction is already underway and is expected to be completed in early 2028, with operations to commence shortly after.
