Linda Reynolds (WA, Liberal Party, Minister for Defence) Share this | Hansard source

As part of this government's commitment to $90 billion of investment in the national naval shipbuilding endeavour, we are also, clearly, designing and developing the workforce to match this new capability. To achieve this, we commissioned an independent critical peer review to assist Defence in developing and implementing an appropriate workforce plan to support and encourage growth of the workforce. I believe it is prudent that the government seeks this expert advice as we plan for our future Navy capability and, in particular, its workforce.

I'm pleased to report to the Senate that Navy has already made good progress towards increasing its workforce, with initial entry training courses at near maximum capability. It help meet Navy's need for an experienced and sustainable workforce, Defence has also instituted a targeted retention program. Further to this, Navy's recruitment targets have increased by 40 per cent since early last year. The Royal Australian Navy and this government are committed to operating and supporting Navy's current and future submarine fleets.