South Australian training providers will be able to apply for grants of up to $250,000 to upgrade facilities, technology and equipment, as the state looks to build the workforce needed for its growing defence and construction sectors.
The State Government has opened applications for its new $3 million AUKUS and Housing Equipment and Capital Grants program, with funding to be divided evenly between defence and construction training.
TAFE SA, eligible industry-based organisations and not-for-profit training providers can apply for funding to invest in equipment, technology and infrastructure used to train students in priority areas.
The grants require matched 1:1 co-investment from successful providers, meaning the program could support up to $6 million in combined government and industry investment.
Funding is expected to support training linked to occupations including electricians, welders and fitters, as South Australia prepares for workforce demand associated with the AUKUS nuclear-powered submarine program and the state’s housing pipeline.
Minister for State Development Chris Picton said developing a skilled local workforce would be critical as those projects progress.
“AUKUS presents a once in a generation opportunity for our state but to achieve this, we must develop the workforce and skills needed,” Mr Picton said.
“We need more young people learning how to be electricians, welders and fitters.”
The grants form part of the State Government’s previously announced $29 million Housing Skills and $27 million AUKUS Skills commitments, which it says will create more than 2,000 pathways through apprenticeships, university scholarships and industry partnerships.
The government has also pointed to recently released National Centre for Vocational Education Research data in making the case for continued investment in the sector.
Nationally, trade completions increased 9.9 per cent in the 12 months to March 2026, although annual trade commencements fell 1.1 per cent. More recent March-quarter figures showed trade commencements rising 2 per cent compared with the same quarter in 2025.
The State Government says South Australia recorded an increase in trade apprentice commencements over the 12-month period, while trade completions increased 20.8 per cent compared with the previous year.
Albert Park training provider PEER has previously received State Government support to introduce virtual reality training technology, add welding bays and improve facilities for women entering trades.
PEER Chief Executive Officer Brian Rungie said investment in training would be important across several industries.
“There is significant work ahead across building and construction, infrastructure, energy and defence, and that creates genuine career opportunities for both young people and people looking to change careers,” Mr Rungie said.
Applications for the AUKUS and Housing Equipment and Capital Grants are now open and close at 5pm on Friday, October 16.
More information is available through Skills SA.
