News

A $5 million program will promote science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) in South Australian schools to prepare students for a future career in the defence industry sector.

The Schools Pathways Program is one of 22 initiatives identified in the South Australian Defence Industry Workforce and Skills Report, co-designed by the Australian and South Australian Governments, to meet the workforce demand for major defence projects.

The $5 million investment includes Western Australia, with both states set to have central roles in delivering major defence projects over the coming decades.

The Schools Pathways Program provides practical career awareness activities for secondary school students and creates links between schools and defence industry.

Students will gain defence industry experience through projects, industry visits, presentations and challenges. Students will connect with mentors and networks of highly skilled defence industry professionals.

STEM skills are critical to ensure Australia has a highly educated, highly trained workforce with cutting-edge skills and capabilities to deliver national defence projects, including conventionally-armed, nuclear-powered submarines.

The South Australian Defence Industry Workforce and Skills Report comprises initiatives designed to grow the pipeline of STEM graduates and trade apprentices, increase participation of under-represented cohorts, build awareness of defence industry careers, support mid-career transitions, and deliver a new Skills and Training Academy at Osborne.