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Serco is proud to support the launch of a groundbreaking First Nations maritime traineeship program, in partnership with the Sea Heritage Foundation, TAFE NSW and the King’s Trust Australia.
The program is designed to enable First Nations students to gain commercial maritime qualifications, offering them a unique pathway into the maritime industry.
The two-year traineeship, facilitated by Serco’s defence team, follows the completion of the Sea Heritage Foundation’s General Purpose Hand Training Course. Through this initiative, Serco’s Defence Marine Support Services (DMSS) contract with the Royal Australian Navy has created an invaluable opportunity for Indigenous trainees to enter the maritime sector.
Serco has provided essential marine support services across naval and non-naval ports in Australia for more than 25 years. This long-standing relationship with the RAN has been key in creating opportunities such as the First Nations maritime traineeship program. Trainees who complete the program will gain qualifications to become professional masters and engineers within the maritime sector.
One of the first graduates of the program, Nick, has successfully completed his traineeship and now holds three nationally recognised maritime qualifications. Nick’s achievement is a testament to the success of the initiative, which is helping to build a more diverse and inclusive maritime workforce. Serco is proud to welcome him as a permanent member of the DMSS team at the Garden Island Naval Base in Sydney. Additionally, two new trainees have now commenced the program, continuing the success of this unique opportunity.
Peter Behrendt, Serco defence managing director, emphasised the importance of increasing First Nations participation in the maritime industry, saying, “At Serco, we are committed to fostering diversity and inclusion in the maritime sector. Programs like this traineeship are essential for creating meaningful career pathways for First Nations Australians, who have deep connections to Australia’s waterways. We are incredibly proud of Nick’s achievements and look forward to seeing more trainees follow in his footsteps. This initiative not only supports individuals in gaining valuable skills but also strengthens the future of Australia’s maritime workforce.”
Sea Heritage Foundation chairman CJ Manjarres-Wahlberg also expressed gratitude for Serco’s commitment to the program, adding, “The Sea Heritage Foundation sought to open doors for Indigenous Australians by providing an immersive maritime experience. This initiative equips graduates with job-ready skills and facilitates meaningful employment outcomes, like Nick’s with Serco, supporting the Royal Australian Navy in Sydney. In just four years, we have transformed an idea into a program that actively contributes to closing the gap in Indigenous education and employment within the maritime sector.”
Michelle Endacott, CEO of The King’s Trust Australia, highlighted Nick as a prime example of the program’s potential, saying, “The King’s Trust Australia’s Get Into Maritime program gives First Nations youth the skills and confidence to apply for jobs in the maritime industry, and Serco’s traineeship has provided the opportunity to build on that foundation. Through this partnership, Nick gained practical experience, mentorship, and valuable industry connections. As a result, he secured a job and has become an advocate for others in his community, demonstrating what is possible when we invest in their potential.”
This success story underscores the importance of initiatives like Get Into Maritime, which provide meaningful opportunities for First Nations youth to thrive and build long-lasting careers in the maritime industry.
