Mitch Fifield (Victoria, Liberal Party, Assistant Minister for Social Services) Share this | Hansard source

In March this year, the government committed to bringing forward a tender for the replacement Pacific patrol boats. The tender, for up to 21 vessels, has now closed, and responses are being assessed by Defence. By expediting this process, the government has demonstrated its commitment to Australian shipbuilders. This announcement in March was complemented by the announcement earlier this month that the future frigate and offshore patrol vessel projects will be brought forward and built in Australia. I can confirm on behalf of the Minister for Defence that the Pacific patrol boats will be built in Australia and that the process is indeed a fair and open one.