Defence apprenticeship programs launch in South Australia for submarine
South Australia Launches Defence Training Programs
South Australia has initiated a significant step towards bolstering its defence workforce with the launch of two new training programs aimed at preparing young individuals for careers in the defence industry. Defence Industry Minister Pat Conroy announced on Monday that the first group of 30 trainees and apprentices will participate in these programs, which are designed to support the construction of Australia’s nuclear-powered submarines and naval vessels. The initiatives promise to create nearly 300 training opportunities for aspiring professionals in the state.
New Pathways for Young Professionals
The Defence Industry Pathways Program and the Shipbuilding Employment Pathways initiative are set to provide essential training for South Australians, equipping them with the skills needed for a future in the defence sector. Over the next three years, the Defence Industry Pathways Program will support 150 paid traineeships, while the Shipbuilding Employment Pathways program will fund 125 apprenticeships in critical trades over the next two years. Both programs are delivered in collaboration with Peer Education Employment & Training and TAFE SA.
Minister Conroy emphasized the importance of these programs, stating, “South Australia is at the centre of the largest and most complex Defence Industry project in Australia’s history.” He highlighted that these initiatives offer invaluable opportunities for young South Australians to gain skills that can lead to lifelong employment. The training provided through these programs is crucial as South Australia plays a pivotal role in delivering conventionally-armed, nuclear-powered submarines and Hunter class frigates, projects that are expected to generate thousands of jobs and represent over $30 billion in investment over the next decade.
Job Creation and Economic Impact
As the defence projects ramp up, the economic impact on South Australia is projected to be substantial. At peak production, the submarine construction initiative is expected to create up to 5,500 direct jobs. Additionally, the Hunter class frigate project at Osborne is anticipated to sustain at least 2,000 jobs while generating 500 new positions. South Australian Defence and Space Industries Minister Stephen Mullighan described the training programs as “a critical investment in the future of our state’s workforce.”
These initiatives not only aim to enhance the skills of the local workforce but also to ensure that South Australia remains at the forefront of the nation’s defence capabilities. With a strong focus on training and job creation, the state is poised to benefit significantly from these strategic investments in its defence industry.
