These critical upgrades will prioritise the safety of our expeditioners, the environmental sustainability of our presence in Antarctica over the long term, and our contribution to global climate science.
The last time major renewal work of this nature was undertaken at Mawson, Casey and Davis research stations was in the 1980s. Modernisation on this scale will enhance Australia's ability to lead world-class science and environmental stewardship across East Antarctica.
The Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water (the Department) has established the Antarctic Infrastructure Renewal Program (AIRP) to deliver critical infrastructure, assets, technology and equipment. The AIRP is led by the AAD using a Program Alliance delivery model.
The AIRP will begin the Davis Critical Infrastructure Works (DCIW) as the first package of works to be delivered, starting on station in late 2026.
Davis Critical Infrastructure Works
The scope of works comprises priority infrastructure renewal at Davis station including:
- water production capability
- new main powerhouse
- new vehicle and trades workshop facilities
- removal of asbestos from the old trades workshop
- site-wide services reticulation
- decommissioning and return to Australia of old buildings.
Work at Davis station will begin in the 2026–27 season with building the seawater intake system and reverse osmosis plant for water production. Construction of a new utility building, which will house the new main powerhouse and workshops will start in late 2027.
These works are due to be completed in 2032.
This investment in the Australian Antarctic Program will strengthen Australia’s science, presence and leadership in Antarctica, underwriting the implementation of the Australian Antarctic Strategy and 20 Year Action Plan.
Caring for the environment
The planned updates will improve energy efficiency and building performance, through aspects such as better insulation and heat recovery. We'll also be conducting environmental remediation works by cleaning up any legacy contamination and ensuring that all waste is brought back to Australia for proper recycling or disposal.
All works are subject to rigorous environmental approvals as per the Antarctic Treaty (Environment Protection) Act 1980 (Cth) and the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (EPBC Act).
Program Alliance
A Program of works as complex and ambitious as AIRP exceeds what a single contractor could deliver under conventional models. The AAD therefore entered an agreement in May 2025 to create the Antarctic Infrastructure Renewal Alliance – or AIR Alliance – allowing us to pool expertise from multiple parties to carry out the works over the next 7 years.
The AIR Alliance is a 4-way partnership between the AAD, Bouygues Construction Australia, Stantec and Mott MacDonald. These companies were chosen through a multi-stage, open tender process.
Unlike employing contractors, a Program Alliance is a true 'one team' collaboration.
Each member of the AIR Alliance shares the risks and rewards of the work and is committed to working through each stage of the project together. This delivery model encourages transparency, value for money and efficiency. Working together will help to manage the high level of uncertainty that comes with working in Antarctic conditions.
The AIR Alliance may also deliver (subject to future consideration and approvals) additional works packages to sustain and renew infrastructure in Antarctica.