Australians wanting a career as a highly skilled Naval submariners will soon be able to directly apply to join the Submarine Force, without prior Defence qualifications, as part of a positive recruitment drive aimed at further increasing submariner numbers.

Defence Minister Robert Hill said the initiative would involve personnel joining the Navy and starting training having already been assigned to the Submarine Force.

A stringent selection process would be used similar to the process used for recruiting Special Forces as part of the Special Forces Direct Recruiting Scheme.

The process will ensure all personnel selected meet submarine specific entry standards.

Senator Hill said Navy is investigating further creative measures to recruit submariners and promote the Submarine Force.

"The Collins Class submarines are a valuable strategic asset that provide a very important contribution to Australia’s national Defence capability," Senator Hill said.

"Our submarines are highly sophisticated and extremely capable and require a number of highly skilled people to operate them.

"In the past, Navy has selected suitable personnel for submarine service from within the ADF, primarily Navy’s trained force, and from overseas.

"The Government is investing in new submarine capabilities including the replacement combat system and heavy weight torpedo.

"These recruiting measures will ensure that our Submarine Force continues to have the necessary number of highly trained and skilled submariners to provide this important maritime capability."