Media release
TAFE NSW | 21 January 2025
TAFE NSW graduate building the career of her dreams as a shipwright
“As part of my job, I might be working on electrical, mechanics, plumbing or fibre glassing. Demand for Shipwrights is high but I’ve also learnt skills that are transferrable to a lot of other industries.”
Talia Dunning
TAFE NSW is playing a crucial role to meet the demand for maritime workers as the Federal Government commits to improving future maritime capability, with an Australian-owned and crewed strategic fleet.
The Australian Government has committed to delivering a Strategic Fleet of up to 12 vessels, to help Australia build resilience to freight disruptions, while supporting the maritime workforce and sovereign capability.
Australia is the fifth-largest user of shipping services globally, with 99 per cent of exports reliant on sea transport. However, with a shortage of Australian-flagged ships and high demand for skilled workers, the government highlights the importance of a Strategic Fleet. This fleet would be crucial during national crises and emergencies, ensuring vital goods reach affected regions and reducing our dependence on international shipping.
This expansion of Australian maritime vessels requires a significant increase in skilled shipwrights. TAFE NSW is addressing demand by training a pipeline of future maritime workers, with Maritime courses offered from entry level to Advanced Diploma.
Avalon local, Talia Dunning, graduated from a Certificate III in Marine Craft Construction through TAFE NSW while completing an apprenticeship with Illuka Yachts. Growing up around the water, Ms Dunning was destined to work on the ocean.
Now a fully qualified Shipwright, Ms Dunning credits TAFE NSW with providing her with the right mix of skills to excel in the industry and is thriving with the variety that comes with working on boats.
“As part of my job, I might be working on electrical, mechanics, plumbing or fibre glassing. Demand for Shipwrights is high but I’ve also learnt skills that are transferrable to a lot of other industries.”
According to the International Maritime Organization, women make up only 3% of the shore-based maritime work force in Australia.
“There are far less women in this job than men, but the industry is respectful, and my employers are very supportive. I encourage any woman considering a career as a shipwright to go for it,” said Ms Dunning. TAFE NSW Ultimo Marine Craft Construction Head Teacher, Thomas Kershaw, said there is currently a huge demand for shipwrights with mass growth predicted and plenty of jobs around.
“Shipwrights, Boat Builders and Repairers, are on the 2025 Apprenticeships Priority List[i]; a clear indication they are in high demand and crucial to Australia’s long-term economic and recreational needs,” Mr Kershaw said.
“The TAFE NSW curriculum is designed to bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application, preparing students to meet industry demands.”
Media contact: Sarah Lievore, sarah.lievore1@tafensw.edu.au, 02 7920 5000
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