Thus far, 50 employers have applied to train and mentor the successful applicants. It is hoped that the broad array of the participating businesses will enable the successful applicants to gain exposure into a range of sectors within the defence industry.

The program not only gives participants a Certificate III in Defence Industry Pathways via the South Metropolitan TAFE, but also provides financial support throughout the training.

The program had over 100 applications within 90 minutes of its launch.

According to Defence, the program was developed with input from WA’s South Metropolitan TAFE and the WA maritime industry.

Minister for Defence Industry Melissa Price outlined that the program will help build Australia’s next generation of defence industry experts.

“These West Australians are the next generation of designers, engineers, scientists and technical tradespeople for our defence industry,” Minister Price said.

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“The Defence Industry Pathways Program gives them a range of career options and an understanding of defence industry before deciding which path they take when they enter the workforce.

“The response to this program has been fantastic. The fact that there were more than 100 applications within the first 90 minutes shows the enthusiasm of young people to explore a future in our exciting defence industry.”

[Related: Indigenous company selected to provide naval upgrades]