A high-tech Antarctic icebreaker ship has not completed a single scientific mission since the Australian taxpayer bought it for $528 million.
The Research Survey Vessel (RSV) Nuyina is expected to conduct two months of scientific voyages each year, in addition to its missions to supply Antarctic bases with cargo, fuel and personnel.
Since its launch in 2021, the Nuyina has completed a number of resupply missions and assisted in one rescue operation, but after three years it has yet to complete a scientific research voyage.
“The (Australian Antarctic Division) is struggling to allocate sufficient ship time to deliver marine science,” a “sensitive” Treasury report completed in February and reviewed by the ABC said.
“This is starting to cause (and could continue to raise) concerns within the scientific community.”
The RSV Nuyina was purchased by taxpayers as part of Australian scientific research efforts in Antarctica
The report noted that the Nuyina was in high demand by the AAD for its supply services and questioned whether one ship was enough for the very expensive ship to do its intended job.
‘Given that Antarctic science is a key benefit that the government expected from the investment in the RSV Nuyina, it may be necessary to consider whether the single-ship model will achieve everything required of the government in the Australian Antarctic Program,’ the report said. .
While the report did not suggest a second ship, Liberal Senator Jonathon Duniam said if Australia is “serious” as a leader in the region, an alternative model ship should be considered to complement the Nuyina.
The Nuyina has also had mechanical problems, causing the cancellation of one scientific voyage last year and it is unlikely to be completed until 2025.
It was also not allowed to drive under the Tasman Bridge at Hobart, meaning an additional 600km travel to refuel in Burnie.
A finance department report found that the ship was under significant competing demands for its use and had not completed any scientific missions
The Australian Antarctic Division said in a statement that the issues were being addressed.
“Over the past 12 months, RSV Nuyina has supported resupply activities at Australian research stations, including providing personnel, cargo and equipment,” an AAD spokesperson said.
‘The Nuyina has also supported critical scientific activities of the Australian Antarctic Program, including seabed mapping, Southern Ocean plankton surveys, deployment of whale and krill monitoring equipment and support for the Denman Terrestrial Campaign.’
“The gateway assessment showed that overall confidence in the delivery of the project to design and build Nuyina was good,” they said.
“It was also noted that the AAD has completed or is in the process of working to address all issues.”