Developments

Cairncross Dockyard Brisbane recently hosted The Hon Andrew Giles MP, Minister for Skills and Training, alongside Ms Renee Coffey MP, Member for Griffith, with representatives from government, industry and training organisations to discuss workforce development in the maritime sustainment sector.

The visit focused on the work underway at the site through ASSIST Maritime, and the role skills and training will play as modern shipyard infrastructure is delivered.

A clear theme was the need to address workforce capability early. Skills and training are being considered alongside infrastructure development, not after major capital decisions have been made.

Modern sustainment shipyards rely on a workforce aligned to how infrastructure is built and operated. More consistent infrastructure approaches require training pathways that reflect those systems from the outset.

Engagement is underway with TAFE Queensland and Weld Australia to explore how training can better align with contemporary shipyard environments. This includes more practical, delivery-based models that integrate engineering, research and on-site experience.

The approach places emphasis on earlier entry into skilled work, including pathways that allow people to earn while they train, while also broadening access to the workforce, including veterans and new entrants.

This work extends beyond a single site. It contributes to building a workforce capable of supporting modern infrastructure, advanced manufacturing and long-term maritime sustainment across Australia.

The visit reinforced alignment with government priorities on skills, training and industry development. Engagement with State and Federal Government will continue as these pathways are developed.

As activity at Cairncross progresses, workforce capability will be developed alongside infrastructure — ensuring systems and skills evolve together to support future maritime sustainment needs.