South Australians will be offered more than 1,000 new training and upskilling opportunities under a $27 million plan aimed at preparing workers for jobs connected to the AUKUS submarine program.
The SA government says the package is designed to help build the workforce needed for nuclear-powered submarine construction at Osborne, where major infrastructure works are already underway.
The training initiative includes a mix of university scholarships, trade apprenticeships, entry-level pathways and reskilling options, reflecting the scale of the workforce expected to be required over the coming years.
The Commonwealth is forecast to invest more than $30 billion into the Nuclear-Powered Submarine Construction Yard at Osborne over the next decade and a half. State estimates suggest at least 4,000 skilled workers will be needed to design and build the yard, while 5,500 direct jobs are expected to support submarine production.
Premier Peter Malinauskas said the program presents a major opportunity for South Australia’s economy and workforce, but also comes with an urgent need to ensure enough people have the right qualifications.
The largest share of funding, $17 million, will support 550 trade apprenticeships in areas considered critical to defence projects. A further $3 million will deliver 300 university scholarships, offering up to $10,000 per student for study in disciplines linked to AUKUS work, including mechanical and electrical engineering, maritime studies, nuclear-related fields and naval architecture.
The government says these scholarships will also focus on improving participation among women and other underrepresented groups, while supporting first-in-family students and international placement opportunities.
Another $1.5 million will fund 100 new places in entry-level courses designed to help people move into defence industry apprenticeships through accredited training and industry experience.
Training providers will also be able to apply for $1.5 million in grants to co-invest in new equipment, technology and facilities, with the aim of expanding capacity for high-quality defence-related training.
The package includes $900,000 for 100 reskilling and upskilling opportunities, targeting workers who may need additional certifications to meet defence standards, including veterans and those seeking qualifications in areas such as cyber security, AI and data analytics.
Support for employers is also built into the plan. Funding includes $1.5 million to assist businesses employing 100 vocational and degree apprentices in engineering, helping cover supervision and training costs. Another $640,000 will contribute towards professional development for 80 engineering graduates in their first year of employment.
Alongside these measures, the government is establishing what it describes as the nation’s first TAFE Centre of Excellence in National Security, intended to develop new defence courses and training facilities.
A further $750,000 will go towards STEM pathways programs for around 500 Year 8 and 9 students, connecting school-aged students with defence industry career options early.
Industry Minister Joe Szakacs said building a skilled workforce would be central to South Australia’s long-term economic plans, with defence projects expected to drive demand across multiple sectors.
The announcement adds to earlier state and federal investments, including new technical colleges, expanded degree apprenticeships, defence industry pathway programs, and thousands of Commonwealth-supported university places and STEM scholarships.
With Osborne set to become one of the most important defence industrial sites in the country, the government says the focus now is on making sure South Australians are ready to take up the jobs being created close to home.
Support independent community journalism. Support The Indian Sun.
Follow The Indian Sun on X | Instagram | Facebook
Support Independent Community Journalism
Dear Reader,The Indian Sun exists for one reason: to tell stories that might otherwise go unheard.
We report on local councils, state politics, small businesses and cultural festivals. We focus on the Indian diaspora and the wider multicultural community with care, balance and accountability. We publish in print and online, send regular newsletters and produce video content. We also run media training programs to help community organisations share their own stories.
We operate independently.
Community journalism does not have the backing of large media corporations. Advertising revenue fluctuates. Platform algorithms change. Costs continue to rise. Yet the need for credible, grounded reporting in a multicultural Australia has never been greater.
When you support The Indian Sun, you support:
• Independent reporting on issues affecting migrant communities
• Coverage of local and state decisions that shape daily life
• A platform for small businesses and community groups
• Media training that builds skills within the community
• Journalism accountable to readers
We cannot cover everything, but we work to cover what matters.
If you value thoughtful reporting that reflects Australia’s diversity, we invite you to contribute. Every donation helps us maintain the quality and consistency of our work.
Please consider making a contribution today.
Thank you for your support.
The Indian Sun Team
