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The program, dubbed “Invested in Exmouth”, is designed to develop next-generation naval and space capabilities at the Harold E Holt precinct as part of an enhanced training and skills package.
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The multi-year program, held in collaboration with several community organisations, is designed to enhance the local talent pipeline in Exmouth, delivering additional opportunities to local businesses and jobseekers.
The initiative includes a new partnership with the South Metropolitan TAFE, where the prime contractor will support the regional education provider with best training practices to advance the local defence industry, as well as work placements with local high schools.
South Metropolitan TAFE is also expected to partner with Central Regional TAFE to deliver enhanced training opportunities.
As part of the “Invested in Exmouth” program, the prime contractor will also facilitate:
- The creation of 10 scholarships for students at Exmouth High School.
- Additional defence industry placements in the region for members of the Australian Defence Force.
- More summer internships.
- An enhanced firefighting program which includes online courses.
- Local leadership courses delivered by Melbourne Business School.
According to Michael Ward, managing director of Raytheon Australia, the program will help keep “world-class talent” in the region.
“The ‘Invested in Exmouth’ program is a new multi-year initiative that will expand on our existing investments while introducing several new community partnerships aimed at developing and keeping world-class talent in Exmouth,” Ward explained.
“Through this program, we are reinforcing our commitment to build the resilience of this community.”
The announcement marks Raytheon Australia’s expanding commitment to the nation’s multi-domain capabilities.
“Ten years ago, the maritime domain was Raytheon Australia’s primary focus — specifically the naval communication systems it was contracted to maintain, and it remains steadfastly committed to supporting this crucial capability for the next 50 years,” he continued.
“But it is important to adapt to the ever changing threat environment and security challenges facing the alliance.”
Minister for Training Simone McGurk MLA, and Minister for Defence Industry Paul Papalia MLA, explained that the partnership will help overcome training barriers for the local community.
The Western Australia state government expects that the training package will help community members get jobs in the region.
“South Metropolitan and Central Regional TAFEs’ work with Raytheon Australia will provide opportunities for local people to build a career in Exmouth,” McGurk said.
“Fostering strong links between WA TAFE colleges, government, industry, and the education sector is key for developing creative solutions to workforce issues and keeping Western Australia’s economy strong.”
To date, the prime contractor has worked in Exmouth for a decade.
Recently, they commissioned the new Space Surveillance Telescope which came online in 2022, delivering enhanced space awareness for Australia and the United States.
Speaking at an event in Exmouth, Ward expects that the additional investment will support the growth of next-generation technical jobs in the region.
“In addition to the technical work we’ve accomplished in Exmouth, we have also generated dozens of education opportunities, provided $50 million in work for local businesses and have sustained more than 120 local jobs,” Ward said.
“The collaboration between the Exmouth community and Raytheon Australia is a practical demonstration of what can be achieved when people come together with a shared vision.”
