The Albanese Government is building a future made in Australia by helping students pursue careers in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) with critical funding for educational pathways that can lead to a career in Australia’s defence industry.
Ten new grants through the Schools Pathways Program will go to organisations, enabling them to collaborate with schools and educational institutions to deliver innovative programs across the STEM domains, including $3.2 million for the Hunter Region.
A highly educated, well trained industrial workforce with cutting-edge skills, spanning a wide range of specialisations, is also critical to the successful delivery of the capabilities needed by the Australian Defence Force to keep Australians safe.
By delivering these skills through the Schools Pathways Program, the Albanese Government is helping ensure Australia has the workforce it needs to meet our current and future strategic and national security priorities through partnerships across government, universities and industry.
Today’s announcement sees more than $11 million in grants awarded across the country, including:
Further details of all awarded grants can be found on the GrantConnect website (https://www.grants.gov.au/).
The awarding of these grants delivers on the Government’s commitment under the 2024 Defence Industry Development Strategy.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Defence Industry and Capability Delivery, Member for Shortland, the Hon Pat Conroy MP:
“The Albanese Government recognises the essential contributions that Australian businesses and educational institutions make to training and developing the talent pipeline we needed by our defence industry.
“The Schools Pathways Program and our partnerships with the industry and education sector are key to ensuring our students are equipped with the skills needed for the advanced and high-tech jobs of tomorrow.
“With these grants the Albanese Government is supporting the defence industry by strengthening our nation’s future STEM capable workforce and continuing our investment in a future made in Australia.”
Quotes attributable to Federal Member for Hunter, Dan Repacholi MP:
“It’s fantastic to see investment in programs that will help young Australians develop the skills they need for future careers in STEM, particularly in defence and advanced manufacturing.
“This funding will open doors for students in our region and beyond, providing them with opportunities to engage with cutting-edge technology and hands-on learning experiences.
“The Hunter has a proud history in manufacturing and industry, and this investment will ensure that local students can continue to access the education and training they need to take up high-skilled jobs in these critical sectors.
“By fostering partnerships between schools and industry, we’re creating direct pathways for young Australians to build rewarding careers.”
Quotes attributable to Federal Member for Newcastle Sharon Claydon:
“The Schools Pathways Program is a fantastic opportunity for local students to get involved with STEM and learn about future career options.
“I am particularly pleased to see the University of Newcastle receiving $1.9 million to for the Science and Engineering Challenge - Next Gen Stem, which provides hands on and engaging learning for students in Years 7 to 10.
“It’s these types of programs that will encourage students to learn the skills needed to take up the jobs of tomorrow and be part Labor’s plans for a Future Made in Australia.”