The Albanese and Malinauskas Governments have announced a $28 million National Security TAFE Centre of Excellence at TAFE SA’s Regency campus, aimed at upskilling technicians to meet the demands of AUKUS and strengthen Australia’s national security.
The centre will develop programs across electrotechnology, electronics and engineering, preparing workers for emerging industries while addressing security threats and cybercrime. Partnerships with employers, unions, universities and research institutes will support the creation of industry-relevant qualifications and training pathways.
A key focus will be preparing the workforce to work on AUKUS-related projects, including collaborations with UK and US education institutes to transfer advanced technology skills. The centre will offer hands-on experience with automated technologies, artificial intelligence, robotics and virtual reality tools, equipping apprentices and tradespeople for roles such as electricians, mechanical fitters, welders and boilermakers while safeguarding critical infrastructure.
Students will also receive training to identify and prevent physical and digital threats, supporting sectors such as defence, space, manufacturing, electronics, energy and water. New courses and microcredentials will help tradies and apprentices strengthen cybersecurity skills and respond to threats when working on national security projects.
The investment will be split equally between the federal and state governments, marking the 14th TAFE Centre of Excellence nationally and the second in South Australia. These centres foster collaboration to deliver high-quality training in critical and emerging industries, from clean energy and advanced manufacturing to cyber security.
Minister for Skills and Training Andrew Giles said the centres would act as “engine rooms of innovation in vocational education,” helping South Australians gain skills for secure, long-term work. South Australian Minister for Education, Training and Skills Blair Boyer highlighted the importance of protecting supply chains as the state’s defence industry expands, noting TAFE SA’s capacity to deliver specialist training for national security and sovereign manufacturing capabilities.
Saab Australia’s Chief Financial Officer Courtney Morcombe said the initiative would support the development of a highly skilled local workforce, enabling the state to meet defence capability requirements and grow opportunities within South Australia’s industry.
The centre is expected to play a central role in preparing the next generation of specialists for Australia’s defence and security sectors while fostering industry collaboration and practical, hands-on training.
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