As the Australian job market continues to evolve, one thing is certain: healthcare and technical roles are poised to drive much of the nation’s job growth in the coming decades. While the future of work can often feel uncertain, new forecasts paint a picture of steady demand in these fields. But what does this mean for job seekers, businesses, and education systems?
Healthcare Takes the Lead
According to the 2025 Jobs and Skills Report, Australia is on track for a significant increase in job creation, especially within the healthcare and social assistance sectors. These industries, which make up a sizable portion of Australia’s workforce, are expected to grow by an impressive 22.9% by 2035, adding over half a million new jobs. By the end of the next decade, healthcare alone is expected to account for more than 17% of the nation’s total employment.
This growth will be driven by an aging population and increased demand for health services, which, while positive for job seekers, could also place pressure on the public health system. With a sharp rise in demand for healthcare services, roles such as registered nurses and aged care workers are expected to see the most significant increases. Given the shortage of workers in these fields already, this growth could present both challenges and opportunities for future employees.
Job Growth in Technical Fields Follows Close Behind
Not far behind healthcare, technical and professional services are expected to be major players in the job growth game. The professional, scientific, and technical services industry is forecasted to expand by 18.5%, adding 250,100 new jobs by 2035. This is partly due to technological advances, increased automation, and the shift toward digital platforms in both the public and private sectors. In particular, jobs in software development, data science, and information technology will see explosive growth, particularly as businesses and organizations adapt to an increasingly digital world.
The Role of Education and Skills
With job growth in these fields, the need for higher education and specialized skills will become even more crucial. According to the Jobs and Skills report, over half of the new positions will require a bachelor’s degree or higher. This means that future job seekers will need to focus on industries that value technical expertise or higher education qualifications. The education system will need to continue adapting to these demands, ensuring that students are ready for the future of work.
Interestingly, international students, particularly those in healthcare fields, are already finding success in securing employment in Australia. This points to the growing importance of global talent in meeting workforce needs, particularly in the healthcare sector, where Australia is facing a significant skills shortage.
Employment Trends Across Australia
This growth in healthcare and technical roles isn’t limited to one region. The entire country is expected to see job increases, with Victoria leading the way, projected to add nearly 580,000 new jobs by 2035. New South Wales isn’t far behind, with projections of 576,800 new roles. Other states like Queensland and Western Australia are also set to experience robust job growth, particularly in healthcare and related sectors.
