Government Launches $11 Million Grant to Boost Defence and Promote STEM Careers
The Australian Government is taking a step forward in its commitment to strengthening the nation’s Defence industry workforce with the launch of the Schools Pathways Program: Open Competitive Grant Opportunity. This initiative, valued at over $11 million across two financial years (2024-25 and 2025-26), underscores the dedication to a future “made in Australia.”
The Schools Pathways Program is designed to raise awareness of career opportunities within the Defence industry and encourage students to engage in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) subjects. By fostering interest in these critical fields, the program aims to build a robust pipeline of talent ready to meet the needs of Australia’s Defence sector.
Eligible organisations will be able to apply for funding ranging from $150,000 to $2,000,000 to deliver activities that align with the program’s goals. In addition to supporting student engagement, the program also offers professional development opportunities for teachers and provides resources for parents and carers to guide their children toward rewarding STEM careers.
Minister for Defence Industry and Capability Delivery, the Hon Pat Conroy MP, emphasized the importance of this initiative, stating, “This Government is committed to developing the defence industry skills we need for a future made in Australia.”
He added, “The launch of this grant opportunity is yet another example of delivering on the Defence Industry Development Strategy, supporting a resilient, competitive, and innovative Australian sovereign defence industrial base, and a future Defence industry workforce to support our national security.”
This latest grant opportunity builds on the $5.1 million already invested through inter-governmental agreements with South Australia and Western Australia over the financial years 2023-24 and 2025-26, further accelerating the Government’s investment in a highly skilled workforce.
Applications for the Schools Pathways Program grant will open in early September 2024. Detailed guidelines and additional information about the grant can be found at business.gov.au.
Reflecting on the broader impact of this initiative, Minister Conroy concluded, “The Schools Pathway program is a great example of how the Government is accelerating investment in a robust and highly skilled workforce, which will allow us to meet the needs of our Defence industry partners now and into the future.”
Photo: Army Maintenace Fitter – Defence Photo
