Today I am pleased to announce the Federal Government has approved a $1.3 million grant to help fund the search for the HMAS Sydney II.
The HMAS Sydney II was the battle cruiser lost off the West Australian coast in 1941.
The financial assistance announced today will be provided to HMAS Sydney Search Pty Ltd.
A great deal of preparation and research has been undertaken by HMAS Sydney Search Pty Ltd and their partner, Mr David Mearns.
Mr Mearns was the person who found the Bismarck and the Hood.
The loss of HMAS Sydney II is one of Australia's greatest maritime mysteries.
The HMAS Sydney II held a special place of regard with Australia's wartime population thanks to its earlier successes in the Mediterranean Sea.
The finding of the HMAS Sydney II would close a significant chapter in Australia's wartime history and bring a long awaited closure to the suffering of the families, as well as allowing the proper recognition of the sacrifice made by the 645 crew.
The funding will be used to conduct the sonar search of the seabed of the identified area with a suitable vessel, state of the art sonar equipment and experienced personnel.
It is timely as we commemorate the 60th Anniversary of the end of World War II that we endeavour to locate the wreck of one of our great battleships.