New joint training program launched for Australian shipbuilding

The government has launched a new training initiative aimed at securing a steady stream of skilled and qualified workers to support Australia’s naval shipbuilding program.

The government’s Naval Shipbuilding College, Naval Group Australia, BAE Systems Maritime Australia and TAFE SA have joined forces to develop The Designer Traineeship.

Minister for Defence Industry Melissa Price said the program would help provide shipbuilding industry work placements, with graduates to be equipped with basic shipbuilding design skills. 

Host companies of The Designer Traineeship will provide workplace experiences, mentoring, supervision, training and coaching for students. 

Upon completion of their traineeship, some graduates may be seconded to Naval Group in France. 

“The trainees will have the opportunity to get both study and work experience, while obtaining a shipbuilding Diploma of Engineering – Technical,” Minister Price said. 

“I’m proud that our Naval Shipbuilding College and TAFE SA are supporting the joint venture by designing the program, a training plan and providing specific shipbuilding context to the course material. 

“With the current lack of shipbuilding design work in Australia, this initiative will help develop the skill sets of naval shipbuilding designers through cooperation with a range of experienced shipbuilding companies. 

“By 2030, Australia’s continuous shipbuilding sector will support 15,000 workers across the nation.”