The loan of "Duchess" to the RAN was offered on 18 February, and accepted on 25 February by the Australian government. The loan period was for four years, with no cost for the ship itself, although the RAN would be financially responsible for running costs and modifications. During the loan period, the RAN intended to construct two modified frigates ( and ) as permanent replacements. "Duchess" concluded her exercise program on 9 March, and returned to Singapore for maintenance. She left Singapore for Australia on 6 April, visiting Darwin and Townsville before reaching Sydney on 19 April. The ship was handed over to the RAN that day.