Minister makes reforms to improve the SADI Program

Defence Materiel minister Jason Clare announced reforms to the Skilling Australia’s Defence Industry (SADI) program to make it easier for companies to access and more effective at training workers in Australia’s defence industry.

“Last year I asked Defence to work with industry to improve the SADI program,” the minister said.

“It’s a successful program, but there is always room for improvement.

“These reforms cut red tape for defence companies – and make sure more training places are made available for workers who need the skills.”

The reforms to SADI include:

• Providing up to $400,000 per company per year for on-the-job technical training;
• Shortening the forecasting outlook for companies by holding two guaranteed funding rounds each year, aligned with educational semesters;
• Seeking quarterly reporting on funded activities, to allow funds not used to be reallocated in the second round; and
• Introducing an online application and grants management system to minimise paperwork for businesses applying for SADI funding.

These reforms were developed after extensive consultation with the defence industry at seven roundtables around the country in September and October of last year.

Minister Clare also announced the opening of applications for the next round of grants for up to $8 million of funding.

Companies will have four weeks to submit applications.

After evaluation, successful grant recipients will be notified before the end of June.