Australia’s submarine company ASC has expanded its partnership with veteran-led Sayres Australia, extending a $2 million contract to strengthen specialised training for the nation’s submarine workforce.
The expanded agreement builds on Sayres Australia’s existing work supporting ASC with the design and development of Navy training courses linked to the Collins Class Submarine Life of Type Extension.
Under the new arrangement, Sayres Australia will also help design and deliver tailored training programs for ASC employees sustaining the Collins Class fleet, as well as the growing workforce supporting the AUKUS nuclear-powered submarine sustainment program.
Training programs will be developed over the next three years, with a focus on technical proficiency and operational readiness. ASC said the partnership was central to building workforce capability and resilience as Australia undertakes its most significant naval sustainment and capability uplift in decades.
ASC chief people and workforce development officer Jo Horne said the collaboration demonstrated the company’s commitment to investing in local expertise and supporting veteran employment pathways.
“Partnering with Sayres Australia brings deep Defence expertise into our workforce while supporting veterans in meaningful civilian careers,” Horne said.
“Their proven training capability makes them an ideal collaborator as we expand our submarine sustainment and future capability.”
Sayres Australia’s workforce is made up largely of former Defence personnel, with three quarters consisting of veterans and veterans’ family members.
ASC said this experience brings valuable operational insight and Defence training expertise to the partnership, particularly in complex, high-consequence environments such as submarine sustainment.
Sayres Australia chief executive Craig Powell said the contract expansion marked an important milestone for the company and reflected growing confidence in its Defence training capability.
“We’re proud to continue and expand our support to ASC in developing high-impact training aligned with Australia’s Defence objectives, in what is an exciting milestone for Sayres Australia,” Powell said.
“Our team understands the demands of Defence environments and is committed to equipping ASC personnel with the skills to excel in support of this important national endeavour.”
ASC said the partnership reinforced its broader commitment to building a skilled, sovereign Defence workforce, while fostering innovation and inclusion through collaboration with veteran-owned Australian businesses.
