Defence Industry Pathways Program
The Defence Industry Pathways Program is an Australian Government initiative building Western Australia's next generation of maritime defence professionals. Delivered in proud partnership with MEGT and South Metropolitan TAFE, this program gives you the chance to gain valuable experience in one of Australia's fastest-growing industries.
How it works
Are you keen to kickstart a career in the defence industry? The Defence Industry Pathways Program lets you earn while you learn in this exciting 12-month program. You'll gain hands-on work experience with defence industry companies while completing your Certificate III in Defence Industry Pathways.
Get paid to learn. You'll receive full pay for the entire program duration, including annual leave, personal leave, and superannuation, all while working toward your qualification.
Build valuable skills. Develop expertise in manufacturing, engineering, computing, logistics, and procurement at defence industry companies across Perth.
Get dedicated support. From day one, you’ll have a dedicated coach who understands your journey and supports you throughout the program.
Earn a recognised qualification. You'll gain a qualification that opens doors across the industry—here in Australia and around the world. You will alternate between practical workplace experiences and focused study blocks at South Metro TAFE.
Strong job prospects. There is a high potential for permanent employment with a host employer upon completion.
What do trainees think of the program?
“The defence industry can take you anywhere around the world.”
What's it really like to step into the defence industry? Isla and Ryan, two MEGT trainees at BAE Systems, share what they’ve discovered.
“It’s been such a wonderful experience to see everything, to learn from it and be directly involved with it.”—Ryan, MEGT trainee
What makes a great trainee?
Are you keen to start your career in the defence industry? We're looking for motivated people who want to build a future in shipbuilding and defence.
Your goals
- Interested in a career in shipbuilding and defence
- Keen to learn cybersecurity, engineering and logistics
- Can commit to our 12-month program
- Want to work in Perth
Your skills
- Good attention to detail
- Strong problem-solving skills
- Work well in a team
- Reliable and punctual
This traineeship is perfect is you take pride in quality work, enjoy solving problems, and want a secure career that makes a difference to Australia's future.
Your learning journey
You will alternate between practical workplace experience and focused study blocks:
Work placements: 12-week rotations with defence industry host employers, where you gain valuable on-the-job experience.
Study blocks: Intensive 4-week learning periods at South Metro TAFE (Fremantle campus), covering one subject at a time for maximum retention.
This approach means you’ll return to the workplace with skills and knowledge you can use immediately.
Course overview
Your Certificate III in Defence Industry Pathways prepares you for a career in the defence industry through practical training across important areas. Subjects include:
Safety and compliance
- CPCWHS1001 - Prepare to work safely in the construction industry
- MEM13015 - Work safely and effectively in manufacturing and engineering
- TLIF0009 - Ensure the safety of transport activities (chain of responsibility)
Communication, information management and cybersecurity
- MEM16006 - Organise and communicate information
- VU23217 - Recognise the need for cyber security in an organisation
- MEM16008 - Interact with computing technology
- TLIP003 - Ensure the confidentiality, privacy and security of customer information
Technical skills and engineering
- MEM12023 - Perform engineering measurements
- MEM12024 - Perform computations
- MEM09002 - Interpret technical drawing
- MEM09009 - Create 2D drawings using computer-aided design system
Materials handling and equipment operation
- TLID0020 - Shift materials safely using manual handling methods
- TLILIC0003 - Licence to operate a forklift truck
Logistics and supply chain
- TLIX4008 - Conduct integrated logistics support activities
- TLIX4028 - Apply knowledge of logistics
- MEM30022A - Undertake supervised procurement activities
Project management and quality assurance
- MEM30020A - Develop and manage a plan for a simple manufacturing-related project
- TLIJ2001 - Apply quality procedures
- TLIE0010 - Identify, analyse and report workplace data and information
Upon completion, you'll have the foundational knowledge and practical skills needed to begin your career in the defence industry.
How we support your journey
As your legal employer throughout your traineeship, MEGT provides comprehensive support to help you succeed, including:
From your first day to when you finish your qualification, you’ll have a coach who understands your journey. Your coach can help with everything—from navigating classes, to supporting learning difficulties, to negotiating relationships at work and at home. This confidential support is available whenever you need it.
Meet regularly with your coach at your workplace, training location or via video/phone calls to stay on track and discuss any concerns.
You and your immediate family get free, confidential access to professional counselling for any personal challenges including stress, relationship issues, financial concerns, and mental health support.
We offer specialised programs for First Nations people, women entering defence industry, and people with disability, ensuring everyone has the resources they need to succeed.
Once you’ve finished your qualification, your host employers have the opportunity to offer you a permanent position. We’re also happy to offer advice on employment opportunities during and after your traineeship.