Australia earmarks AU$3.9 billion to build a submarine construction yard in Osborne near Adelaide, a down payment toward developing nuclear-powered submarines under AUKUS.

The plan envisions a future fleet of advanced US submarines with initial acquisitions starting around 2032, while Australia builds sovereign capability to manufacture its own submarines later.

Long-term estimates put the yard investment at AU$30 billion, with total program costs potentially approaching €200 billion over the next thirty years.

Premier Peter Malinauskas highlighted the project’s job impact, with about 4,000 workers needed for the construction phase, up from the previous Holden-era staffing.

The investment is framed as a major boost to local jobs and industry through a landmark defence project.

The announcement comes ahead of a South Australian state election, with polls showing Labor holding a strong lead on a two-party basis.

The initiative fits broader aims to counter China’s influence in the Indo-Pacific and to secure sovereign defense capabilities.

A separate report notes a Sydney police chase ending in a fatal crash, with charges against the 31-year-old driver after a pursuit halted for safety.

Albanese cited direct talks with the U.S. President and assurances from U.S. and UK authorities that AUKUS remains viable and progressing.

The program follows the 2021 diplomatic crisis with France over submarine contracts and signals a shift toward enhanced long-range Pacific capabilities.

Analysts note Liberal leadership turmoil, while the government asserts it represents all Australians and critiques the opposition’s diversity.

South Australia’s premier calls the project game-changing, stressing its scale for construction and long-term regional economic security.