TAFE NSW (Technical and Further Education New South Wales) is a leading vocational education provider in Australia, playing a critical role in shaping the next generation of seafarers through high-quality, industry-aligned training supported by advanced simulation capabilities. Closely aligned with the standards and regulatory framework of the Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA), TAFE NSW delivers maritime programs that emphasize safety, compliance, and operational excellence in accordance with national and international requirements.
To strengthen its training capability and respond to evolving industry requirements, TAFE NSW has established a state‑of‑the‑art Maritime Simulation and Training Complex in partnership with Wärtsilä and Australian systems integrator AWA Marine.
Through the integration of state-of-the-art simulators, students are immersed in realistic scenarios that build competency in navigation, engineering, emergency response, and bridge operations. This strong focus on experiential learning ensures graduates are well-prepared for the evolving demands of Australia’s maritime sector, supporting workforce readiness and enhancing safety outcomes at sea.
Officially launched in May 2026 in Tighes Hill, Newcastle, the new facility represents a AUD 5.2 million investment by the NSW Government in the future of maritime education and training.
At the heart of the facility are Wärtsilä bridge and engine room simulators, enabling trainees to experience realistic, high‑fidelity operational scenarios that reflect real‑world ship handling, propulsion, and onboard communication. Integrated bridge and engine room training supports coordinated decision‑making and teamwork, mirroring modern shipboard operations.
The Wärtsilä simulation setup at TAFE NSW supports a wide range of learning modes, including instructor‑led classroom training, remote learning, and self‑directed study.
Cloud simulation technology extends access beyond physical simulator rooms, enabling flexible training delivery while maintaining consistent system performance and instructional quality. In addition, multi‑functional ECDIS and GMDSS classrooms, virtual reality ship handling simulators, and Australian exercise areas allow trainees to build competence across navigation, communication, and ship handling disciplines in a controlled, repeatable environment.
As maritime regulations, vessel technologies, and decarbonisation requirements continue to evolve, training institutions must remain adaptable.
Wärtsilä's simulation solutions provide TAFE NSW with a platform designed for long‑term development, supporting continuous software upgrades, content expansion, and alignment with regulatory changes, including upcoming STCW amendments. The facility also supports training for traditional and alternative fuels, reinforcing TAFE NSW’s commitment to sustainable maritime operations and future‑focused skills development.
Looking ahead, TAFE NSW is actively evolving its training roadmap to expand simulation-led programs for specialised roles such as marine pilots, ferry operators, and coastal vessel crews, reinforcing its commitment to future-ready skills development across Australia’s maritime ecosystem.
With decades of experience in maritime simulation and thousands of installations worldwide, Wärtsilä brings proven expertise in realistic ship modelling, hydrodynamics, and training system design.
In close collaboration with AWA Marine as the local systems integrator, Wärtsilä is supporting TAFE NSW with a fully integrated, long‑term simulation solution. This partnership ensures reliable system performance, ongoing technical support, and the ability to tailor training content to Australian operational requirements, reinforcing NSW TAFE’s position as a leader in maritime education nationally and internationally.
Discover how Wärtsilä simulation technology supports training institutions worldwide with realistic, scalable, and future‑ready maritime training solutions.
Last updated: August 2026
Content owner: Wärtsilä Marine
