Top in-demand careers in 2022

The world of work is changing. The COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in a decade's worth of technological advancement being compressed into a few months and while some industries have struggled, others have thrived, and new ones have emerged. If you're looking to decide on the next step in your career, knowing what jobs are in demand in Australia may help you make your decision.

Impacts on the Australian job market

While Australia has weathered the COVID-19 storm comparatively better than many other countries, the pandemic has still seen a large impact on our economy and job market. The latest figures from the federal budget predict unemployment will reach 7.25% in 2020-21 with young people and women particularly impacted by job losses.

The impacts of the last year have meant that some occupations will no longer be a viable career choice, while other jobs are experiencing high demand. For example, changes like working from home have left inner-city cafes and takeaways empty, but increased demand for food delivery services. Knowing how the pandemic has impacted the jobs of the future can help you make an informed decision for your future career path.

Top in-demand careers in 2021

According to the Australian Government's Job Outlook service, future job demand — both now and further into the future — will be in health care and social assistance, education and training, construction, and professional, scientific and technical services.

With the strain the pandemic has put on our health care system, there's no surprise that health care jobs such as registered nurses are in demand. Australia's aging population, the introduction of the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS), and impact of the pandemic on our mental health are also driving demand for qualified aged and disabled careers, child carers, and community services workers.

As more businesses are forced to move online and offer work-from-home solutions for their staff, demand for IT professionals such as software developers, cyber security professionals, and database developers and designers continues to grow. Another professional career that's expected to experience strong growth in the next five years is accountants. With career options in big accounting firms, small and medium businesses, or the option to work for yourself it's a career you can make your own.

In the education and training field, demand is high for education aides including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Education Workers. As Australia's population and the number of school-aged children continues to grow, these careers are forecast to experience very strong growth in the future.

With both state and federal governments announcing major infrastructure projects and building grants, the construction industry has not only survived, but thrived during the last 12 months. It offers a diverse range of careers including air-conditioning and refrigeration mechanics, bricklayers and stonemasons, carpenters and joiners, civil engineers, construction managers, electricians, floor finishers, glaziers, painters, plasterers, plumbers, roof tilers, and wall and floor tilers.

How TAFE Queensland can help

TAFE Queensland offers a range of courses tailored to equip students with the industry-relevant skills they need to succeed in the high-demand jobs of the future. All our courses are focused with the end in mind and developed to give you the real-world skills the employers of today and tomorrow are looking for. Our teachers are industry-experts with years of experience in the field, and are passionate about sharing their knowledge with the next generation.

Now more than ever we know how important it is to be able to study when and where you want. That's why we offer a range of flexible study options including part time, online, and on campus at one of our 50+ locations. Plus, with a range of new funding and subsidies available, it's never been more affordable to invest in your future career.

See where TAFE can take your career. Search our range of industry-relevant courses and discover how we can help you land an in-demand job for the future.