The next generation of SA shipbuilders have begun the first ASC Shipbuilding Readiness Training Program at Osborne, ensuring our state has the skilled workforce to fill the thousands of jobs on offer as a result $90 billion pipeline of defence work from the Commonwealth.
Over the life of the future frigate build, 1000 students who undertake the readiness program will be employed with ASC.
The industry-led program allows the students to complete their SACE while undertaking their Certificate II in Engineering, all while gaining a head start on their transition to employment in the defence industry.
Premier Steven Marshall said this massive $90 billion defence spend in our state is creating an unprecedented pipeline of jobs for decades to come.
"South Australia is unquestionably the centre of naval shipbuilding in Australia," said the Premier.
"We are set for a tsunami of jobs in the defence industry over many generations, and we need to ensure we have the workforce to take advantage of this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.
"This training program will help prepare South Australia for the future demand for shipbuilding jobs by ensuring there is a strong pipeline of skilled workers.
"The $35 billion Hunter Class Frigates and $50 billion Attack Class submarines to be built at Osborne, confirm South Australia's reputation as the defence capital of the nation."
The Shipbuilding Readiness Program forms part of one of the first of the Government's 'Flexible Industry Pathways' to begin taking students.
Flexible Industry Pathways, a key initiative of the Government's VET for School Students policy, are being developed in partnership with industry to provide students with pathways to commence employment and further education while completing their schooling.
As well as defence, pathways will be established in a diverse range of high demand industries where there a jobs and careers that students can take up immediately.
Education Minister John Gardner said the Government was focused on delivering educational outcomes that best position South Australia's young people to get jobs.
"We want South Australian school students to be set up for success, with strong employment outcomes and educational achievement when they leave school," said Minister Gardner.
"This is a great example of our new Flexible Industry Pathways providing students with an opportunity to get a head start in the workforce while completing their schooling.
"Starting a traineeship through the ASC Shipbuilding Program will deliver excellent outcomes for students, industry and the South Australian economy.
"In the coming months we will give our students further opportunities like this as we roll out more Flexible Industry Pathways in key industry areas for our state."
Minister for Innovation and Skills, David Pisoni said it's a crucial program not just for South Australia, but for the entire nation.
"The State Government is supporting more school students into paid training pathways, leading to exciting and fulfilling careers.
"Under our Skilling South Australia program, SA has achieved nation leading success in increasing apprenticeship and traineeship commencements, testament to the strong connections we have fostered with industry to build South Australia's skilled workforce.
"The VET for School Students policy is integral in linking school students with industry, paving the way for targeted training and real jobs."
The second intake for the ASC Shipbuilding Program is now being promoted, seeking 22 school- based trainees to start in December this year
