Rolls-Royce Strengthens AUKUS Collaboration with Skills and Technology Agreements in Western and South Australia
Rolls-Royce has formalized new partnerships with the Governments of Western Australia and South Australia through the signing of memorandums of understanding (MOUs). These agreements represent a coordinated effort to enhance workforce development, expand skills training, and advance critical technologies essential for the defence sector in both states. The move signals an important milestone in the preparation for Australia’s role within the AUKUS submarine program, which will eventually provide the country with its first fleet of conventionally armed nuclear-powered submarines.
A Strategic Step for AUKUS and Australia
The AUKUS partnership between Australia, the United Kingdom, and the United States is one of the most ambitious trilateral defence initiatives in modern times. For Australia, the program marks a transformation of its naval capabilities, establishing it as one of the few nations to operate nuclear-powered submarines. Rolls-Royce, with decades of experience in nuclear propulsion, is a central figure in ensuring the success of this initiative.
The newly signed MOUs highlight Rolls-Royce’s pivotal role in transferring expertise and supporting local capacity. They also underline Australia’s commitment to creating an ecosystem that combines international expertise with local skills to meet the demanding requirements of the AUKUS program.
Workforce Development at the Core
A central focus of these agreements is the co-design and delivery of initiatives aimed at building a highly skilled workforce across both states. This includes strengthening science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) pipelines to prepare the next generation of engineers, technicians, and specialists who will be required for submarine construction, operation, and maintenance.
Western and South Australia both have strong industrial and educational foundations, but the scale of the AUKUS program requires a much broader base of skilled talent. Addressing existing gaps in critical skill areas—such as nuclear engineering, advanced manufacturing, and systems integration—will be key to meeting program timelines. By partnering directly with Rolls-Royce, the state governments are ensuring that global best practices are embedded within local training and workforce initiatives.
Rolls-Royce’s Nuclear Heritage
Rolls-Royce is uniquely positioned to contribute to this initiative. The company has powered the Royal Navy’s nuclear submarines for over 65 years and possesses unmatched expertise in reactor design, manufacture, and lifecycle management. Unlike any other private organisation, Rolls-Royce holds the capability to manage every stage of a nuclear propulsion program, from initial design to eventual decommissioning.
To meet the demands of both UK and Australian programs, Rolls-Royce is expanding its Derby site in the United Kingdom. This major investment will double the size of the facility, enabling greater capacity to deliver on AUKUS while supporting the Royal Navy’s ongoing requirements. The Derby site is also home to Rolls-Royce’s Nuclear Skills Academy, launched in 2022 in partnership with the University of Derby, which is already producing a steady pipeline of young talent. Each year, the academy admits up to 200 apprentices, many of whom are now contributing directly to submarine programs. The innovative structure of the academy has received industry recognition and will serve as a model for workforce development efforts in Australia.
Building on Previous Engagements
The signing of the MOUs builds on a series of earlier engagements between Rolls-Royce and Australian stakeholders. Notably, in 2023, it was confirmed that Rolls-Royce Submarines would provide all nuclear reactor plants for the new AUKUS attack submarines. This announcement cemented the company’s status as the primary reactor technology provider across the trilateral alliance.
Additionally, Rolls-Royce Submarines conducted a significant visit to Australia in 2024, deepening relationships with government, industry, and education partners. These interactions laid the groundwork for today’s agreements and provided a clearer understanding of Australia’s workforce and industrial requirements.
Strategic Importance for Western and South Australia
For Western Australia, home to the HMAS Stirling naval base and future submarine facilities, the agreement ensures access to critical skills and technologies required for operations and sustainment. South Australia, meanwhile, is set to play a central role in submarine construction and shipbuilding activities, particularly around the Osborne Naval Shipyard.
By embedding Rolls-Royce’s nuclear expertise into local training systems and industrial processes, both states will strengthen their positions as vital contributors to the AUKUS alliance. These collaborations will not only support submarine production but also provide long-term economic benefits through job creation, advanced manufacturing growth, and educational opportunities.
