Message from the Secretary of the Department of Defence, Greg Moriarty, and the Chief of the Defence Force, General Angus Campbell.
The Government’s announcement that Australia will acquire nuclear-powered submarine technology and no longer proceed with the Attack Class submarine program is being felt across the Department in different ways.
We know many of you have worked on the SEA 1000 project for a number a years, through long hours, with passion, dedication and commitment. We sincerely thank all staff – ADF personnel, public servants and contractors – who have worked tirelessly on the SEA 1000 project to date.
Every ADF and APS staff member involved in the SEA 1000 project will retain a position in the Department.
At this time we are focussed on understanding your skills, experience and career aspirations to facilitate transition into new roles. A staff transition plan is being developed to support mobility and career options. Defence People Group will provide individual support through the transition process, including coaching and career planning advice. Further details will be available soon.
We will also look to support our above the line contractors who have valuable and unique skillsets for Defence.
There will be job opportunities within the Nuclear-Powered Submarine Task Force (NPSTF), National Naval Ship Building (NNS) and broader Defence, and we will work together to find roles that best match individual and organisational needs.
For staff in Adelaide, the Government is committed to building the new submarine capability at Osborne in close cooperation with the United Kingdom and the United States. We value your significant efforts and the skills that you have developed working on SEA 1000, all of which we will continue to need.
To our personnel and families in Cherbourg, we appreciate this decision means you will be required to return to Australia or to another overseas posting. We know there are challenges with uplifting families and returning home or moving to another location. You and your family will be supported throughout this process, and your move will be tailored to your personal circumstances.
We would like to reiterate the Government’s commitment to supporting skilled shipbuilding workers in industry who were impacted by this announcement. Defence will examine the workforce, training, education, and skilling requirements to ensure Australia has the right people with the right skills to fill the new jobs which the nuclear-powered submarine program will create.
We understand it may continue to take some time for personnel to absorb last week’s announcement and what it means for your specific circumstances. We appreciate this decision may cause some stress and uncertainty.
There are a number of support mechanisms available to you if you feel you need assistance.
APS Employees and Contractors
Defence Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
1300 687 327 (Australia only) +613 8620 5300 (international)
ADF Members
ADF All Hours Support Line
1800 628 036 (Australia only) +61 2 9425 3878 (International calls)
Defence Member and Family Helpline
1800 624 608 (Australia only) +61 2 6127 1600
The ADF’s mental health and psychology services are available to promote positive mental health for all Defence members.
Anyone with HR related questions can direct them to: DPGPSQuestionBox@defence.gov.au
Thank you
