WA invests in naval defence manufacturing

Western Australia has announced an $11.5 million investment to expand the state’s naval defence industry and shipbuilding capabilities.

The funds will be used for apprenticeships and training to build and maintenance of ships in the state, as well as the establishment of a Henderson Defence Precinct, creating more than 10,000 new skilled jobs.

New projects slated for the Defence Precinct include nuclear-powered submarine support as part of the AUKUS partnership and construction of the Mogami-class frigates, following the defence agreement between Australia and Japan.

The funding also provides WA defence industry supply chain businesses with up to $20,000 for each apprentice they take on across fabrication, industrial electrician, electrotechnology technician and mechanical trades.

WA defence Industries Minister Paul Papalia said his goal “is to grow WA's defence industry into the State's second largest after mining – creating generations of jobs and diversifying our economy.

The investment is part of the state’s Made in WA plan.

The apprenticeships are being supported through TAFE.

WA Skills and TAFE Minister Amber-Jade Sanderson said, “The State Government is committed to growing WA's defence industry workforce, so that we can capitalise on the Commonwealth Government's billions of dollars of investment in our State.

“With continuous shipbuilding expected to start at Henderson in 2026, it's imperative that we have the trades workforce ready to meet the industry's needs.

“Our $11.5 million investment is key to our Made in WA plan and will support training a pipeline of skilled workers for the defence industry.

Picture: credit WA government