The Australian government has identified several occupations that are expected to be in high demand in 2024 based on factors like skill shortages, projected growth, and priority status on the Skilled Occupation List.
These includes:
Software and Applications Programmers
Salary Range: AU$65,000 – AU$120,000 per year.
Projected Job Growth by 2024: 8,405 additional workers needed Software and applications programmers design, develop, test and maintain software applications and systems.
With technology playing an increasingly important role across all industries, software programmers are more in demand than ever in Australia.
Major companies like Atlassian, Canva and Afterpay need talented programmers to build and scale their products. Startups across fintech, medtech, agtech and other sectors also rely on programmers to develop their digital platforms and offerings.
To become a software programmer in Australia, you typically need a bachelor’s degree in software engineering, computer science or a related field.
Proficiency in programming languages like Java, JavaScript, C# and Python is highly desirable. With the rise of cloud computing, software programmers who specialize in building cloud-native applications on platforms like AWS and Azure are especially sought after.
Registered Nurses
Salary Range: AU$60,000 – AU$90,000 per year.
Projected Job Growth by 2024: 17,859 additional workers needed.
As Australia’s population ages and healthcare needs grow, registered nurses are urgently required across the country.
Nurses provide vital care in hospitals, aged care facilities, community health centers and other medical settings.
Major demand exists for nurses with experience in areas like critical care, operating theatres, mental health, pediatrics, midwifery and more. Opportunities are ample in metro areas as well as rural and remote regions.
To work as a registered nurse in Australia, you must complete a Bachelor of Nursing or equivalent qualification approved by the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia. Registration with the board is also mandatory.
The best job prospects exist for nurses with strong communication skills, emotional intelligence and the ability to work well in fast-paced healthcare environments.
Construction Managers
Salary Range: AU$80,000 – AU$150,000 per year.
Projected Job Growth by 2024: 7,145 additional workers needed.
With major infrastructure and building projects underway across Australia, construction managers are in high demand to oversee these complex developments.
Construction managers plan, direct and coordinate construction projects from conception to completion. Major projects like the Melbourne Metro Tunnel, Western Sydney Airport and Snowy 2.0 Hydropower Plant require experienced construction managers to ensure timely and successful delivery.
Commercial builders and residential developers also need competent managers to lead projects. Typical requirements include a bachelor’s degree in construction management/civil engineering along with substantial industry experience managing large-scale developments.
Strong leadership, collaboration and communication abilities are essential.
Secondary School Teachers
Salary Range: AU$65,000 – AU$100,000 per year.
Projected Job Growth by 2024: 8,716 additional workers needed.
Secondary school teachers instruct students in Years 7 to 12 across various subject areas.
With rising student enrollment in public and private schools, secondary teachers are urgently needed, especially in math, science and technology subjects.
Opportunities exist across all Australian states and territories, particularly in rapidly growing areas. Teachers who specialize in high demand subjects tend to have the best job prospects.
To qualify, you need a 4-year teaching degree with a specialization in your chosen teaching area, along with a teaching credential. Strong classroom management abilities and an encouraging teaching style are vital.
Electricians
Salary Range: AU$55,000 – AU$100,000 per year .
Projected Job Growth by 2024: 8,021 additional workers needed.
With ongoing infrastructure development and construction activity, electricians are one of Australia’s most in-demand trades.
Electricians install, maintain and repair electrical power systems and equipment in residential, commercial and industrial settings.
Major opportunities exist for electricians involved in power grid modernization projects, renewable energy systems, battery storage solutions and more.
Electricians who run their own contracting business can earn even higher salaries. Becoming a fully licensed electrician involves a 4-year apprenticeship and trade certification. Strong problem-solving skills, technical aptitude and a diligent work ethic are prerequisites.
Civil Engineers
Salary Range: AU$65,000 – $115,000 per year.
Projected Job Growth by 2024: 4,000 additional workers needed Civil engineers plan, design and manage large-scale infrastructure projects like roads, bridges, railways, water supply systems and commercial buildings.
With widespread infrastructure spending across Australia, civil engineers play a vital role. Engineering firms, construction companies and government agencies seek civil engineers to work on projects such as developing new suburbs and regional rail links.
Sustainability initiatives and natural disaster resilience projects also require civil engineering expertise.
4-year bachelor’s degree in civil engineering is mandatory. Registration as a professional engineer with Engineers Australia demonstrates your qualifications, competency and commitment to ethics.
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