Western Australia has spearheaded its first nuclear foundations training course, positioning the state’s manufacturing and industrial sectors to capitalise on AUKUS submarine program opportunities.
The initiative is aimed at preparing the local workforce for the specialised manufacturing and maintenance requirements of nuclear-powered submarines planned for Henderson, the Western Australian government announced.
The program is funded through the $2.5 million Defence Industry Reskilling and Upskilling (DIRU) Grants Program and is designed to develop industrial capabilities through targeted training partnerships. The targeted approach is intended to deliver specialised capabilities where most needed and build up Western Australia’s defence workforce.
Through the DIRU funding initiative, H&B Defence has secured $568,000 to train up to 150 participants across the defence, naval, and nuclear sectors.
In collaboration with Curtin University, H&B Defence will provide training to engineers, technicians, project managers, and other defence industry professionals.
The program’s first group of 40 participants is now receiving hands-on, practical training that follows standards established by the UK and U.S. nuclear submarine programs.
Trainees are introduced to strict safety standards and the culture and discipline required for working safely in nuclear-regulated environments.
Defence Industries Minister Paul Papalia described the partnership as “a critical step in readying Western Australia to host and sustain nuclear-powered submarines under AUKUS, well ahead of Australia acquiring its own fleet in 2032.”
This training initiative follows the recent maintenance work on the Royal Navy’s HMS Anson at HMAS Stirling—the first time a UK nuclear-powered submarine has undergone maintenance in Australia.
Skills and TAFE Minister Amber-Jade Sanderson said the course program showcases how Western Australia’s tertiary education providers and industry partners can move quickly and cater to the emerging skills needed under AUKUS.
“Through the Defence Industry Reskilling and Upskilling Grants Program, we are supporting the tertiary education sector to produce job-ready graduates by investing in targeted, industry?led training that strengthens our sovereign capability,” Sanderson said.
A second specialised course focusing on submarine enterprises, regulations, and support infrastructure is scheduled for late 2026, also supported by the DIRU Grants Program.
