Australia’s tech workforce has grown 8 percent in the past 12 months, in line with the government’s goal of 1.2 million technology-related jobs by 2030.
Figures released today by the Tech Council show the overall tech workforce has increased to 935,000 compared to 865,000 a year ago.
Driving the increase are software developers, data analysts and cyber security jobs working in non-tech companies, such as banks and supermarkets.
In a bid to meet demand for technology jobs, the government is working with industry to train up more Australians in the field of technology.
Fee-Free TAFE and vocational education and training places have seen a surge in enrolments this year, with over 14,500 of the 146,000 Fee-Free TAFE enrolments to date occurring in Technology and Digital courses. This will quickly provide critical skills and see more well-trained tech workers.
The Digital and Tech Skills Working Group, comprised of industry, unions and the training and education sector is due to deliver a ‘Digital Apprenticeship’ scheme report to government next month.
Jobs and Skills Australia, along with the newly established Jobs and Skills Councils, will also act as a source of advice on issues affecting the tech industry, providing strategic and practical leadership in addressing skills and workforce challenges.
“With a steady increase to nearly 935,000 tech workers this year, compared to 865,000 last year, we are well on track to deliver 1.2 million jobs by 2030,” said Hon Ed Husic, Minister for Industry and Science. “If the tech workforce were an industry, it would be the 7th largest employer in Australia. Boosting the number of tech jobs in our workforce is not a “nice to have” – they’re incredibly vital to building stronger, competitive Australian businesses in the long run. Workers with tech skills are highly sought after for well-paying, secure jobs. On coming to government, we prioritised tackling digital skill shortages by investing in local training and skills development along with attracting talent from overseas. That’s why we made tech jobs a priority in recruitment for the 464,000 fee-free TAFE places – and why we’re reforming our skilled visa system. The Albanese government wants Australia to be recognised for its digital talent and using that talent to drive the growth of a modernised, advanced economy.”
“Skills shortages are gripping the nation and the tech sector is no exception. Database and Systems Administrators, ICT Security Specialists and Systems Analysts remain in the top 20 occupations in demand,” said Hon Brendan O’Connor, Minister for Skills and Training. “That is why our government wants to support a VET sector that not only gets people into jobs, but on the path to a well-paying career. The strategic investment in education and skills by the Albanese Government will equip hundreds of thousands of Australians with the skills needed in this critical, growing sector of our economy.”
