Initiatives
Entry-level initiatives are designed to have a strong short-term impact, opening the door to a stable, long-term career in the defence industry. We note that continued efforts are needed to build and optimise entry-level programs.
Defence Force Recruiting – applications to Industry Transition Program
An opportunity exists to channel those who apply for the Australian Defence Force (ADF), but do not take up an ADF role, into the defence industry. ADF candidates who are not suited for ADF service may have the skills and aptitude to contribute elsewhere.
Cost – Australian Government funded and delivered.
Timing – From Q1 2024.
Impact – Will encourage those with an interest in ADF service who do not meet the strict requirements for service to consider a career in the defence industry.
Delivery partner/s – Australian Defence Force and the Australian Government’s Department of Defence
Early Careers Program
The Australian Government, together with ASC, will develop an Early Careers Program, providing up-and-coming professionals with the shipbuilding skills needed to build and maintain Australia’s future submarine fleet. The program will be conducted in South Australia and Western Australia, with 70 participants commencing in 2023. It will support growth and development of skills critical for Australia’s shipbuilding and sustainment programs, giving participants access to advanced technologies and training from leading submarine professionals.
Cost – Australian Government funded and delivered.
Timing – From July 2023. Currently underway.
Impact – Will provide participants with hands-on training, encouraging them to pursue a career in the shipbuilding industry.
Delivery partner/s – Australian Submarine Agency and ASC
Degree Apprenticeship Pilot Programs
This initiative will provide opportunities for students to attain higher education qualifications which are a priority in the defence industry via an apprenticeship. The ‘earn while you learn’ aspect will alleviate part of the financial difficulty of changing careers. The students will also be employed by defence industry employers while they study, which will support new workers to both study and work in areas of high need.
Cost – $2.5 million to expand the degree apprenticeship pilot in South Australia. Australian and South Australian Government co-funded and delivered.
Timing – Courses and programs will be developed in 2024, with the first cohort commencing in 2025–26.
Impact – 375 new apprenticeship commencements over four years.
Supporting measures
In addition to the key education and training initiatives required, there are a number of supporting measures that underpin the implementation of these initiatives including, Evidence-based decision-making, Strategic communications and outreach, Skilled migration, and Security clearances.