Additional University Places Added in Newcastle to Grow AUKUS Workforce

BY HOLLY FISHLOCK

Additional places in STEM courses will be open at the University of Newcastle next year, in a bid to help grow the skilled workforce required to deliver AUKUS nuclear-powered submarines.

The Albanese Government is investing $128 million to fund an additional 4,001 university places across Australia. In Newcastle, 140 places have been allocated.

These additional places will apply to 38 STEM-related courses, designed to attract more students to train in science, technology, engineering and mathematics.

Federal Member for Patterson Meryl Swanson said she's celebrating the move.

"I'm delighted to say that the Albanese Labor Government has funded 140 additional places at the University of Newcastle over the next four years for STEM related subjects such as mechanical engineering and chemical engineering," says MP Swanson.

Ms. Swanson says it is important to increase training in STEM-related fields, as careers in these industries in Newcastle are in high demand.

"It's incredibly important that we do grow the workforce that is needed for the AUKUS nuclear-powered submarines. In addition to that, it's also important that we constantly work with our businesses in the local area.

"The reason it's so important that we increase people taking up STEM courses is because that's where the jobs of the future in our region are going to lie. As a government we've recognised that, and that's why we've supported and funded these 140 places at Newcastle University over the next four years,," she said. 

Eligible students are able to apply and commence studies for STEM courses from the beginning of 2024.

Liddell Power Station closure generates future energy debate

BY CONNOR MARSELOS

Today marks a major milestone in how the energy grid will be shaped for future generations.

After operating as a coal-fired power station since 1971, the Liddell Power Station finally shut down, as the last 500 megawatt generator switched-off.

The shutdown plays a role in the Federal Government's transition to renewable energy, mainly wind and solar power.

Business Hunter CEO Bob Hawes, says the closure of Liddell now puts the region into an uncertain period of energy insecurity through to 2027.

"Energy demand in Australia is still increasing significantly and is going to continue to increase while we do gear up for the renewable revolution." Mr Hawes said.

The plan to address the potential short fall Mr Hawes says, has to factor in large-scale commitments to compensate energy generation not just with Liddell, but the five remaining coal-fired power stations.

"We'll continue to work at the intersection of government, business, and investment to support the supply of reliable and renewable energy as we journey towards a renewable energy future".

Federal Energy Minister Chris Bowen has already indicated the size and scope of the transition now laid out for Australia.

The minister noted, in order to achieve Net-Zero by 2030, the energy grid would need to commission 40 wind turbines per month and 22,000 solar panels daily to meet the energy demand.

One source cited by the minister during these remarks, was the potential utilization of small, modular nuclear reactors.

Nationals leader David Littleproud is calling for a mature conversation with the government about the role nuclear energy can play in the transition.

"It can replace this big generator with two or three small modular nuclear reactors, that would keep the jobs here, give a future for the Hunter and the jobs that need to come back," Mr Littleproud said.

Image: Newcastle Herald