The Department of Defence, through a Request for Tender (RFT), is seeking a provider for Designer Support Services to manage the design and sustainment of the ANZAC Class (FFH) frigates. Overseen by the Naval Shipbuilding and Sustainment Group (NSSG), the contract ensures the fleet’s capability, safety, and seaworthiness. The remaining ANZAC Class ships include HMA Ships Arunta, Ballarat, Parramatta, Perth, Stuart, Toowoomba, and Warramunga, with Ex-HMAS Anzac already decommissioned and another set for decommissioning in 2026. 

The successful provider will act as the platform designer, working with the Royal Australian Navy (RAN), NSSG, and industry partners under the Maritime Sustainment Model (MSM) and Plan Galileo. Responsibilities include managing engineering changes, ensuring compliance, and supporting modifications and upgrades. Key focus areas: 

• Engineering Support: Overseeing design integrity, certification, safety, and technical updates, ensuring compliance with AS/NZS ISO 55001:2014 (Asset Management). 

• Lifecycle Management: Implementing continuous improvements and maintaining sustainment capabilities. 

• Regulatory Compliance: Ensuring all modifications and updates align with Defence Seaworthiness Management System (DSwMS) requirements. 

• Supply Chain Integration: Coordinating with industry partners and subcontractors to manage sustainment and maintenance efforts. 

Shore facilities such as the Naval Engineering Systems Centre (NESC), Combat System Development Centre (Adelaide Test Site), and Combat Tactical Trainer (HMAS Watson) will support sustainment, upgrades, and decommissioning. 

Structured under the ASDEFCON (Support) template, the contract requires expertise in naval architecture, engineering, and sustainment management. 

The evaluation process will consider value for money, technical capability, pricing, risk management, and Australian Industry Capability (AIC). Innovation in ship design, safety, and compliance are key criteria. 

An industry briefing will be conducted at 11.00am local time on 18 March 2025 in Western Australia at a venue to be advised. 

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