More than 330 new apprenticeship commencements will be delivered as part of a $18.3 million package to build the defence manufacturing workforce.
More than 330 new apprenticeship commencements will be delivered as part of a $18.3 million package to build the defence manufacturing workforce.
About $2.9 million will be allocated by the Western Australian government towards apprenticeship commencements in nominated defence trades, with the aim of achieving 200 completions by the 2025 financial year.
The spending is aimed at positioning WA as a competitive market for upcoming defence projects and maintenance work, which the government said was expected to be valued at $75 billion nationally over the next decade.
The state government has been aggressively pursuing relocating the full-cycle docking process for Australia’s six Collins class submarines from South Australia to Henderson.
That is the mid-life maintenance work.
The new package includes a $3.3 million injection to create new TAFE short courses and $8.5 million in additional incentives for shipbuilding employers to offer apprenticeships.
Two new scholarship programs aimed at encouraging women and defence veterans to enter the defence manufacturing industry will be delivered through a co-funding arrangement between the state government and industry, with each contributing $5,000 towards 20 scholarship opportunities.
“Supporting veteran pathways into civilian employment and leveraging off their economic potential is essential if we are to help our veterans to find a new sense of purpose and identity,” Veterans Issues Minister Peter Tinley said.
South Metropolitan TAFE will receive funding to upgrade equipment, including four new computerised milling and lathe machines for use in training metal fitters and machinists.
“Defence industry projects offer incredible opportunities for the state and this investment will further strengthen our capacity to secure high-value, job-creating work,” Education and Training Minister Sue Ellery said.
“WA’s defence industry is world-leading, and this package will ensure Western Australians are in the box seat to take advantage of the opportunities on offer,” Premier Mark McGowan said.
