Subs could still be a local build: PM

Australia's next-generation submarine fleet could still be built locally, Prime Minister Tony Abbott has told South Australians.

But construction won't start until after 2025, he told Adelaide Radio 5AA on Tuesday as he revealed details of a $89 billion naval building program for the next 20 years.

"Certainly the decision today in no way precludes a local build of submarines," Mr Abbott said amid concerns the construction project would be given to Japan.