Since entering service in 1998, HMAS Arunta has performed a wide range of duties, including border protection patrols in northern Australian waters as well as several deployments to the Persian Gulf.
This design is based on the ship’s patch, the perentie lizard (a member of the goanna species). The name ‘Arunta’ recognises the ship’s ongoing and special relationship with the Arrernte people of Central Australia. HMAS Arunta and the Arrernte Council presented HMAS Arunta with a flag displaying a perentie lizard. The lizard is an animal from the dreamtime for the Arrernte people. HMAS Arunta also sponsors a perentie lizard, the ship’s mascot, at Perth Zoo, Western Australia.
