Defence-related careers made possible through TAFE
A new advertising blitz highlights the career pathways made possible through TAFE, with Western Australians encouraged to consider skilling, upskilling or re-skilling to support WA's growing and diversifying economy.
'You Can Make It Here' recognises the vital role of fee free and low fee TAFE in delivering a skilled workforce and achieving the government's priorities, particularly as it relates to AUKUS, which will in the coming years support 10,000 jobs at a new defence manufacturing precinct at Henderson.
It coincides with the end of the school year, when many young people are considering study options for 2026.
'You Can Make It Here' features current students and showcases how Western Australians can build a successful and rewarding career through TAFE and take advantage of hundreds of fee-free or low-fee courses.
That includes several defence-related courses, including:
- Certificate IV in Cyber Security;
- Advanced Diploma of Cyber Security;
- Certificate IV in Electronics and Communications;
- Certificate IV in Engineering (Instrumentation);
- Diploma of Engineering - Technical; and
- Advanced Diploma of Engineering Technology - Electrical.
There are also several low fee courses available to students at South Metropolitan TAFE's Naval Base campus, including:
- Certificate III in Engineering - Composites Trade;
- Certificate III in Engineering - Fabrication Trade (Boiler making/welding); and
- Certificate III in Marine Craft Construction.
This campus houses the delivery of heavy fabrication, marine fabrication, welding and composite apprenticeship training with a large focus on Western Australia's growing shipbuilding industry.
The workshops at Naval Base campus have been designed specifically with training in mind. The campus features a state-of-the-art fabrication workshop consisting of 45 welding bays which have been constructed and equipped for multi-use, as well as a machine shop, electrical workshop and supporting classrooms.
Investment in TAFE and training aim to ensure WA remains the strongest economy in the nation, including through the $11.5 million AUKUS Defence Industry Incentive.
The incentive provides defence industry employers with up to $20,000 for each apprentice they take on in one of four trades, including:
- Certificate III in Engineering - Fabrication Trade (known as boiler making/welding);
- Certificate III in Engineering - Mechanical Trade (known as fitting/machining);
- Certificate III in Engineering - Industrial Electrician; and
- Certificate III in Electrotechnology Electrician.
TAFE will accept Semester 1 2026 applications until 6 February 2026, with the deadline for competitive courses extended to 14 November 2025, so those interested have more time to apply.
To learn more about courses available at TAFE visit tafe.wa.edu.au or contact your local TAFE or Jobs and Skills Centre on 13 64 64.
