TAFE NSW to Lead the Future of Maritime Training with Cutting-Edge Simulation Technology
Sydney, Australia – 20 May 2026– TAFE NSW, in partnership with AWA Marine, is set to transform maritime education through the delivery of a state-of-the-art Maritime Simulation and Training Complex powered by Wärtsilä simulation technology.
Designed to support a wide range of training requirements — including individual, remote, virtual, and classroom-based learning — the facility will deliver engaging, flexible, and industry-focused training opportunities. The initiative ensures TAFE NSW remains at the forefront of maritime education, integrating advancements in decarbonisation, digitalisation, and hydrodynamic modelling to prepare the next generation of maritime professionals.
Next-Generation Maritime Simulation
This world-class training centre establishes a new benchmark in Bridge and Engine Room training, aligning with AMSA and Class requirements while supporting evolving STCW training standards. The simulators will also serve as an innovation and research platform, enabling TAFE NSW to explore emerging maritime technologies and operational concepts.
Key Deliverables
- Three Full Mission Bridge Simulators, operable independently or as an integrated system.
- One Full Mission Engine Room Simulator supporting training in conventional and alternative fuel operations.
- Multi-functional ECDIS and GMDSS classroom with 12 student stations.
- Cloud Simulation Technology enabling instructor-led and self-directed remote learning.
- Virtual Reality Ship Handling Simulator delivering advanced mixed-reality training.
- Integrated Bridge and Engine Room simulation replicating real-world communications and operational scenarios.
- Updated Australian and International Exercise Areas covering major ports and waterways.
- Access to Wärtsilä’s extensive 6DOF ship model database, including specialised software enabling TAFE NSW to develop customised ship models and training scenarios for research and development.
Future-Proofing Maritime Training
This initiative represents more than a major infrastructure upgrade — it is a strategic investment in the future of maritime training in Australia.
With long-term support from AWA Marine and Wärtsilä, TAFE NSW will benefit from continuous software upgrades and feature enhancements, ensuring students always have access to the latest developments in simulation technology.
With more than 30 years of industry leadership and over 7,000 global installations, Wärtsilä delivers industry-leading realism and accuracy in maritime simulation. Its continued investment in advanced hydrodynamic modelling technology provides highly immersive and realistic training environments for maritime education worldwide.
As Australia’s leading maritime systems integrator, AWA Marine is delivering the project as a turnkey solution, ensuring seamless integration of hardware, software, engineering, commissioning, and long-term support. Strong local industry involvement throughout the project further reinforces TAFE NSW’s position as a leader in maritime education and workforce development.
Transforming Australian Maritime Training
“This facility will redefine how future maritime professionals are trained in Australia,” said Liam Murphy, CEO of AWA Marine.
“With integrated simulation systems, virtual and mixed reality technologies, cloud-based training, advanced hydrodynamic modelling, and alternative fuel simulation capability, TAFE NSW is setting a new benchmark for maritime education and training.”
This project positions TAFE NSW as a national leader in maritime education, helping raise industry standards through cutting-edge digital, environmental, and simulation technologies.
Media Contact
AWA Marine
Liam Murphy
CEO
P: +61 3 9646 9966
M: +61 417 553 062
E: Liam.Murphy@awamarine.com.au
www.awamarine.com.au
Wärtsilä
Julia Ponomareva
Engagement and Product Lead
M: +65 8343 7935
E: julia.ponomareva@wartsila.com
www.wartsila.com
About AWA Marine
AWA Marine is one of Australia’s leading maritime technology and systems integration companies, delivering advanced navigation, communication, simulation, and digital maritime solutions across the commercial shipping, offshore, ports, government, and maritime training sectors.
With nationwide engineering and service capabilities, AWA MARINE provides turnkey project delivery, system integration, commissioning, and long-term operational support for some of the maritime industry’s most advanced technology platforms. The company partners with globally recognised maritime technology leaders to deliver innovative, future-focused solutions that enhance safety, operational performance, training outcomes, and vessel efficiency throughout Australia and the Asia-Pacific region.
About Wärtsilä
Wärtsilä is a global leader in innovative technologies and lifecycle solutions for the marine and energy markets. With more than 30 years of leadership in maritime simulation and over 7,000 simulator installations worldwide, Wärtsilä delivers advanced training solutions designed to enhance safety, operational efficiency, and environmental performance across the global maritime industry.
Wärtsilä’s simulation portfolio includes Full Mission Bridge, Engine Room, cloud-based, and virtual reality training solutions powered by advanced hydrodynamic modelling and immersive visual technologies. These systems support maritime education, research, and workforce development for training institutes, commercial operators, ports, and government organisations worldwide.