Your future starts here!

Discover exciting careers in the defence industry in the City of Cockburn.

When most people hear the words defence industry, they think of military uniforms and the Australian Defence Forces. But the truth is, the modern defence industry is full of exciting, everyday career opportunities with many of them based right here in the City of Cockburn.

Located just south of Perth, the City of Cockburn is more than just a great place to live, it’s one of the most important centres for shipbuilding, maintenance, innovation, and advanced manufacturing in Western Australia.

Home to the Australian Marine Complex in Henderson, Cockburn plays a leading role in maintaining the Navy’s fleet and is set to help build and sustain the submarines of the future.

Nearly 2,000 people already work in defence-related jobs in Cockburn, with that number expected to grow fast. Over the next 10 years, $15 billion worth of shipbuilding work will take place locally, and $8 billion is being invested in nearby HMAS Stirling to support Australia’s new submarine program.

That means thousands of jobs will be created and not just for engineers or tradespeople. The defence industry includes roles in areas like:

• Technology and innovation – robotics, artificial intelligence, drones, and software development
• Skilled trades – precision welding, electrical work, mechanical fitting and fabrication — all vital for shipbuilding and sustainment
• Cybersecurity – protecting sensitive information with cutting-edge digital tools
• Logistics and supply chain – keeping things moving by managing people, parts, and processes
• Project management – planning and coordinating big projects, from the shipyard floor to the office.

Many of these roles don’t require a university degree. Vocational training, apprenticeships, and TAFE qualifications are all great ways to get started in the industry.

Learn more about the defence industry in the Defence Industry Careers Zone, proudly sponsored by the City of Cockburn. This is your chance to meet local businesses, talk to people who work in the industry, and get hands on with the kinds of technologies used every day in defence.