Franmarine is a specialized Australian maritime service provider focused on commercial diving, underwater engineering, and biofouling management. Founded in 1981 and headquartered within the Australian Marine Complex in Henderson, Western Australia, the organization has built a long-standing reputation for maintaining the submerged integrity of vessels and marine infrastructure. Over more than four decades, it has transitioned from a general diving contractor into a technology-driven sustainment partner for the defense, commercial shipping, and resource sectors.
The company’s operations are centered on the critical maintenance of ship hulls and subsea assets, often referred to as ships husbandry. A major component of its operational identity is its focus on marine biosecurity and environmental compliance. As ships travel globally, they risk transporting invasive aquatic species attached to their hulls. Franmarine addresses this challenge by providing in-water cleaning services that utilize advanced capture and containment capabilities. This method removes marine growth while simultaneously capturing biological waste and paint debris, ensuring that contaminants are not released into the surrounding water. By effectively managing hull cleanliness, the company helps vessel operators reduce drag, which significantly lowers fuel consumption and associated greenhouse gas emissions.
In the defense sector, Franmarine serves as a strategic partner to the Royal Australian Navy. Working alongside major defense prime contractors, the organization delivers essential underwater maintenance and sustainment services that support the operational readiness of the naval fleet. This work extends across Australia’s coastlines, reinforcing the nation's sovereign maritime capabilities by keeping surface ships combat-ready and compliant with biofouling regulations. Beyond defense, the company services the oil and gas, ports, and infrastructure markets, offering capabilities that range from structural inspections and non-destructive testing to mooring repairs and salvage operations.
The organization employs a diverse workforce of commercial divers, engineers, and project managers who utilize a mix of manual expertise and robotic systems, such as Remotely Operated Vehicles (ROVs). To support modern fleet management, the company has also integrated digital platforms that track the biofouling condition of assets, enhancing transparency and regulatory adherence for fleet operators. Through its dual focus on technical precision and environmental stewardship, Franmarine supports the longevity and efficiency of Australia’s critical maritime assets.
