Occupational Pathways for Defence

Australia’s maritime industry is experiencing a critical shortage of skilled workers, particularly trained seafarers. At the same time, Defence personnel with relevant maritime experience often face limited pathways into civilian roles. This project aims to bridge that gap by developing a national Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) framework that supports the transition of Naval personnel into civilian maritime occupations.

Why It Matters
The Strategic Fleet initiative highlights the need for a stronger, more agile maritime workforce. By creating clear pathways from Defence to civilian maritime careers, this project will help:

• Accelerate the supply of qualified seafarers.
• Address occupational shortages in officer and deck roles.
• Optimise the Government’s investment in Navy training.
• Increase career transition opportunities for Defence personnel.
• Strengthen collaboration across industry, government, and training providers.

What We’re Doing
Industry Skills Australia will work with key stakeholders, including AMSA, maritime enterprises, unions and education providers to:

• Identify Naval roles that align with skill shortages in the civilian maritime sector.
• Map these roles to nationally recognised training products.
• Scope and address any gaps in training pathways.
• Validate the framework with maritime and Defence stakeholders.
• Promote the RPL model and transition pathways through the National Maritime Skills Network.

This initiative supports Recommendation 13a of the Strategic Fleet Taskforce Final Report and contributes to building a skilled, responsive maritime workforce to meet Australia’s strategic and commercial needs.

This project is due to be completed by July 2026.