Delivered in partnership with Austal, Australia’s Strategic Shipbuilder in Western Australia, the Shipbuilding Ready – Engineering SkillLaunch Program helps prepare entry-level candidates for the shipbuilding sector.
On completion, participants may be selected by Austal to transition into trade roles, including apprenticeship pathways, working on multiple defence shipbuilding projects.
Austal is offering fully funded, paid training scholarships to selected applicants, with an opportunity for employment in trade roles at the conclusion of the program.
Participants will complete the 52913WA Certificate II in Engineering Foundations, a course which combines traditional craftsmanship with cutting-edge technology in metal fabrication and welding.
From mechanical engineering to defence, this diverse pre-apprenticeship program exposes students to the latest technological advancements and equipment.
Applications are open!
About the program
Course: 52913WA Certificate II in Engineering Foundations
Dates: Monday, 1 February to Friday, 9 April 2027
Duration: 10 weeks
Delivery: 8.00am to 3.30pm, 5 days a week (7 hours of class time and 30 minutes for lunch)
Location: Rockingham campus, 151 Simpson Avenue, Rockingham
Work practice: A compulsory 150 hours of work practice at Austal is required to be completed in April/May 2027 (dates to be confirmed)
Graduates will develop foundational fabrication, welding, safety and engineering skills through hands-on training in South Metropolitan TAFE's facilities and specialised workshops.
Equipped with the practical skills and workplace readiness required in shipbuilding environments, graduates will be well positioned to secure Trade Assistant and other entry-level roles within Austal and the broader defence and shipbuilding industries, or progress directly into metal fabrication or mechanical apprenticeships with advanced standing.
Learn more about the job role and the training program, and submit your resume and application.
Session 1: Thursday, 19 November 2026, 9.00am to 10.30am at Thornlie campus
Session 2: Tuesday, 24 November 2026, 5.00pm to 6.30pm at Rockingham campus
To register your attendance, please submit the Application Form below.
- This program is open to Australian citizens only.
- Applicants must reside in Western Australia to be eligible.
- Prefer minimum 18 years of age.
1. We recommend attending an information session to learn more about the program. To register your attendance, please submit the Application Form.
Upcoming session dates are listed in the section above.
2. Submit your application anytime via the Application Form (even if you haven’t attended an information
session), by 4.30pm Monday, 30 November 2026.
3. If shortlisted, you will be invited to attend the Austal Assessment Centre for an interview on Wednesday, 16 December 2026.
4. Successful applicants will be contacted with an offer of a place from Thursday, 17 December 2026.
5. Classes start Monday, 1 February 2027.
More information
If you have any other questions or need assistance with your application, contact the Defence Industry Team at the Rockingham Jobs and Skills Centre
Phone: 9599 8655