There can be a lot to consider when deciding on an occupation: Will it bring you satisfaction? Is it flexible? Does it offer career progression and the potential to earn more? One of the most crucial factors for many is job security. That’s where understanding Australia’s most in-demand jobs comes in.
A major advantage of in-demand roles is that they often exist in sectors critical to our country’s and people's wellbeing. These include healthcare, construction, early childhood education and cyber security. Working in these fields means you can make a positive impact while earning a living.
Even better, vocational training for many of these occupations is covered under Free TAFE, making gaining the qualifications you need easier.
Here, we look at five high-demand jobs in Australia and how you can get started in them.
Construction manager
Impact your community's infrastructure for the better by overseeing building projects.
As a construction manager, you'll be responsible for the day-to-day running of job sites and construction projects. You'll be involved in all operations, from planning to managing resources and workers in your team. Your job will include consulting with architects, engineers, subcontractors, and other professionals to ensure a smooth project.
How much does a construction manager make?
The average salary for a construction manager in Australia is around $140k per year.
How to become a construction manager
The career pathway to construction manager combines on-the-job experience and formal training. Many construction managers work their way up from entry-level roles in the industry.
Courses like Certificate IV in Building and Construction (Building) give you the practical skills and knowledge to start your career.
You'll also need to hold a White Card. The White Card shows you have completed the mandatory training to work safely on a job site in Australia.
Registered nurse
Care for others in a role that's essential to the community's wellbeing.
As a registered nurse (RN), you'll be vital in delivering healthcare across various settings. You'll implement and oversee a patient's medical treatment, ensuring they receive the highest quality of care. You may also supervise enrolled nurses (EN), nursing assistants, and students, fostering their development in a collaborative environment.
How much does a registered nurse make?
The average salary for a registered nurse in Australia is around $84k per year.
How to become a registered nurse
You must complete a bachelor's degree in nursing to become a registered nurse in Australia. This qualification usually takes three years to complete.
You could also take a pathway from a Diploma of Nursing with Chisholm. Starting with this diploma will allow you to gain qualifications as an enrolled nurse in 18 months, and when you are ready, enter the second year of a Bachelor Of Nursing (Enrolled Nurse Pathway).
To practice as a registered nurse, you'll need to apply to the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia (NMBA).
Cyber security professional
Protect network systems and fight against cybercrime in a range of work settings.
Cyber security professionals are specialists in designing, implementing, and monitoring robust security systems for IT networks. In this critical role, you will assess risks, identify system vulnerabilities, and recommend effective protection strategies to safeguard information. In senior positions, you may lead a team and train clients on cyber security best practices.
How much does a cyber security professional make?
The average salary for a cyber security professional in Australia is around $102k per year.
How to become a cyber security professional
To gain a job in cyber security, you could complete a bachelor's degree in cyber security. This high-level qualification usually takes three years to complete.
You could also start your career pathway with a Certificate IV in Cyber Security. Starting with a qualification can allow you to gain an entry-level role, get on-the-job experience, and potentially take further study later to help progress your career.
Early childhood educator
Shape young lives in a rewarding and dynamic work environment.
An early childhood educator works to create a nurturing, safe environment for children to thrive and develop. They care for preschool-aged children in various daycare, early learning, and kindergarten settings. They plan and implement education strategies, understand child behaviour and support the challenges children face as they develop.
How much does an early childhood educator make?
The average salary for an early childhood educator in Australia is around $63k per year.
How to become an early childhood educator
To become an early childhood educator, you'll need a combination of on-the-job training and a formal qualification.
You usually need a VET qualification for entry-level positions, such as a Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care or a Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care. These courses are available at Chisholm, and you can also gain both qualifications through the Victorian Early Childhood Traineeship Program.
To work in early childhood, you’ll also be required to undergo a Working with Children Check.
Aged care worker
Provide a safe, nurturing environment allowing people to thrive in their later years.
Aged care workers support older adults in maintaining a healthy, enjoyable life. They assist with day-to-day tasks such as cooking, eating, cleaning, showering, and dressing. They also help clients stay socially and physically active by accompanying them to meet friends, attend fitness classes, engage in hobbies, and attend medical appointments.
How much does an aged care worker make?
The average salary for an aged care worker in Australia is around $88k per year.
How to become an aged care worker
To become an aged care worker, you usually need training and a qualification from a Registered Training Organisation (RTO).
You could gain a Certificate III in Individual Support (Ageing and Disability) and complete it as a full-time course or through a traineeship. You could also complete Certificate IV in Ageing Support, which provides more advanced skills, including leadership in the workplace.
To get some initial experience and stand out to potential employers, you could volunteer at a local aged care facility.
Securing a career in one of Australia's in-demand sectors offers long-term job stability, personal fulfilment, and the opportunity to contribute to essential services. By gaining industry-relevant qualifications through options like Free TAFE, you can equip yourself with the skills necessary to thrive in these vital roles.
Are you ready to future-proof your career and make a difference in one of the most in-demand jobs in Australia? Discover the courses that can get you there from Chisholm.
