The new research and supply vessel cost the federal government 1.9 billion Australian dollars (approximately $1.39 billion USD) and will be replacing the Aurora Australis, which operated from 1989 to 2020. Nuyina has been in development for the last 10 years and can resist 45 foot-high waves and temperatures as low as -22 degrees Fahrenheit.
The ship is expected to operate for the next 30 years and will be able to leave for three-month trips.
According to Ley, the vessel is expected to "establish [Australia's] Antarctic legacy for generations to come".