The Commonwealth has gifted the NSW Government with the decommissioned Royal Australian Navy Guided Missile Frigate, The HMAS Adelaide II Funds have been provided by the Commonwealth to prepare and sink the ship to form an artificial reef off the Central Coast. To facilitate this process Department of Premier and Cabinet in conjunction with the Department of Lands have the overall coordination and implementation responsibility of the project.

The Department of Premier and Cabinet (DPC) is taking an overall project coordination role, and has formed a multi-agency group that is detailing the various state and federal approvals processes required. DPC will also initiate a communications strategy, under development in conjunction with Tourism NSW, which will allow the people of the Central Coast and elsewhere to stay in touch with the project as it progresses.

The Department of Lands has responsibility for the Terrigal Haven foreshore and the seabed on which HMAS Adelaide II is expected to eventually sit, has taken on the role of the preparation, sinking and ongoing management of the artificial reef site.
Use this site to download tender documents, keep up to date with News and Media Releases and stay informed on timelines for the HMAS Adelaide II Artificial Reef Project

Why sink the ADELAIDE?
Evidence from similar artificial reefs in other states is there is a positive impact on tourism activity. The preparation of the ship is expected to provide a boost of investment to the State. Research has also indicated the establishment of an artificial reef will enhance the:

• Marine ecology in the area and potentially lead to additional marine research opportunities.
• Tourism - International interest has already been expressed from groups seeking to dive on the HMAS Adelaide II.
• Local community – job opportunities and business.

HMAS Adelaide II will provide ongoing value to the Central Coast region, with expected environmental, economic and recreational benefits. It is estimated that it will generate between $11 million annually and up to $17 million in tourism revenue in its first year of operation.