Labor Sets Aside Billions to Extend Life of Ageing Submarines

The government plans to extend the service life of six ageing Collins-class submarines by 10 years under a new sustainment program.

The Royal Australian Navy's HMAS Waller (SSG 75), a Collins-class submarine, is seen in Sydney, Australia, on Nov. 2, 2016. Peter Parks/AFP via Getty Images

Billions of dollars have been set aside to extend the lifespan of the ageing Collins class of submarines before AUKUS ships become part of the fleet.

The Albanese government announced on May 19 it will be changing its sustainment approach to the boats, meaning the six submarines won’t have their decades-old propulsion generators replaced.