STEM students at South Australian universities can now apply for the Propel Australian Submarine Scholarship Program, a new initiative offering both financial support and career mentoring to help build a future in Australia’s submarine workforce.
Delivered by the Australian Submarine Agency (ASA) in partnership with the Australian Academy of Technological Sciences and Engineering (ATSE), the program offers $5000 scholarships for students studying priority disciplines such as engineering, physics and mathematics.
Successful applicants will join a two-year program designed to connect them with opportunities across the AUKUS nuclear-powered submarine enterprise, including Defence and industry workshops, internships and career expos.
ASA Deputy Director-General Technical, Tim Hodgson, said the Propel scholarships will support young people to develop the capabilities needed to safeguard the nation.
“AUKUS represents one of the most significant industrial endeavours in our country’s history. The success of Australia’s nuclear-powered submarines relies on people developing the skills needed to build and sustain them,’ said Mr Hodgson.
“The Propel scholarship program will support the defence industry by strengthening our nation’s future STEM capable workforce and continuing investment in young Australians who will make up our future workforce.”
The program will provide 3000 scholarship placements across Australia valued at $15.8 million.
ATSE CEO Dr Kylie Walker said the Propel program offers more than financial support – it connects scholars with real-world career opportunities in defence science, technology and engineering.
“By building pathways in science, technology and engineering, ATSE is helping Australia innovate diversify, and strengthen our economy, capability and security,” she said.
“ATSE’s programs are proven – graduates are more likely to complete their studies and go on to meaningful work and we know that they consistently credit ATSE for this.”
Across the country, the conventionally armed nuclear-powered submarine program is expected to create around 20,000 highly skilled jobs for Australians, including 4,000-5,500 new jobs in South Australia.
The SSN-AUKUS class submarines will be built in Adelaide at the Osborne Naval Shipyard in a joint venture between ASC Pty Ltd and BAE Systems.
Applications close Monday 10 November 2025.
Visit Propel to view eligibility criteria and apply.
Published 17 October 2025
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