Australia will not hold an open tender to replace its aging Collins-class submarines, government officials said Tuesday, a decision that bolsters Japan's position as the likely builder of the new multibillion-dollar fleet.

Reuters reported in September that Australia was leaning toward buying as many as 12 off-the-shelf stealth submarines from Japan despite fierce domestic opposition to buying the vessels abroad instead of building them at home.

Australia does not have time for an open bidding process, Treasurer Joe Hockey said in an interview with the Australian Broadcasting Corp.