Engineers Australia has today welcomed the Albanese Government’s announcement of a $128.5 million investment over four years to fund 4,000 additional university places to help power the AUKUS workforce.
Engineers Australia CEO, Romilly Madew AO, praised the Government for their commitment to addressing skills shortages in the engineering sector and acknowledging its significant role in strengthening Australia’s military defences.
“The recognition of the vital role engineers will play in AUKUS is not only a testament to the importance of engineering in safeguarding Australia’s national security but also a commitment to ensuring our nation remains at the forefront of technological advancements.” she said.
Madew says that while the new investment is a step in the right direction – the increasing demand for engineers requires further support from the Government.
“Australia’s engineering sector is at a tipping point and without urgent action projects such as AUKUS, the infrastructure pipeline and reaching net zero by 2050 will not be achieved,” she said.
“Engineers Australia is calling on the Government to adopt the target of producing 60,000 additional engineering graduates by 2033. This will help cater to our nation’s engineering needs and ensure that Australia continues to thrive in an increasingly complex and interconnected world.”
Madew says that Engineers Australia is committed to working with the Australian Government in the future.
“We remain committed to working alongside policymakers to ensure that Australia’s engineering potential is fully realised.”