Babcock Australasia (Babcock) has renewed its partnership with STEM WA for 2026, marking a second year of collaboration to inspire Western Australia’s next generation of innovators and strengthen the state’s future Defence and maritime workforce.
The continued partnership reflects Babcock’s long‑standing commitment to Western Australia, where the company plays a critical role in sustaining Royal Australian Navy vessels at Henderson, supporting strategic communications in Exmouth, and contributing to the state’s sovereign industrial capability.
STEM WA delivers hands‑on programs and competitions that give students real‑world exposure to engineering, problem‑solving and teamwork. In 2025, more than 240 students from 15 schools took part in the STEM WA Oceania Championships on Garden Island, while the South West Mini ROV Championship brought STEM learning to Busselton for the first time.
Babcock’s Acting Corporate Affairs Officer Paul Azar said the partnership is an important part of the company’s long‑term investment in the community
“Western Australia is central to Babcock’s operations, and supporting STEM WA is an investment in the state’s future workforce. These programs give young Western Australians the chance to see themselves in careers that will shape the nation’s maritime and Defence capability, and we’re proud to help open those pathways.”
For Babcock, the partnership aligns with its commitment to building a skilled, sovereign workforce and supporting its footprint in the West. Babcock contributes more than $253 million annually to the state’s economy, works with 85 local suppliers, and supports 859 full‑time equivalent jobs. Through initiatives such as the Defence Industry Pathways Program, Shipbuilding Employment Pathways, Engineering Aid Australia and STEM WA, Babcock continues to invest in the development of future engineers, technicians and specialists.
The renewed partnership will see Babcock continue to support STEM WA’s competitions, school engagement activities and regional outreach, ensuring more students, regardless of background or location can access high‑quality STEM learning. STEM WA Chair Rod Brown said Babcock’s continued support will help expand the organisation’s reach across the state. “Babcock’s renewed partnership strengthens our ability to engage more students across Western Australia, particularly in regional communities. Their people bring real industry experience that helps students understand the pathways available in the maritime and Defence sectors, and encourages them to explore their own innovative ideas with confidence.”
The partnership reinforces Babcock’s commitment to making a positive impact in the communities in which they operate, while helping shape a strong, capable and diverse workforce for Western Australia’s Defence and maritime sectors. This partnership reflects Babcock’s broader dedication to investing in Western Australia’s community and creating long‑term, meaningful opportunities for young people across the state.
