Australia’s tech workforce has experienced a significant 8% growth in the past year, bringing the nation closer to achieving the ambitious target of creating 1.2 million technology-related jobs by 2030.
The Tech Council has released new figures highlighting that the overall tech workforce now stands at 935,000, attributing it to the rising demand for software developers, data analysts, and cybersecurity professionals in non-tech companies.
“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,” Minister for Industry and Science Ed Husic said.
“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.”
Related: Critical technologies list updated to secure Australia’s future
In response to the surging demand for technology jobs, the Australian government has taken proactive steps to train and upskill more Australians in the field of technology. One of the key initiatives is the implementation of Fee-Free TAFE (Technical and Further Education) and vocational education and training programs.
This year alone, the enrollment numbers have witnessed a surge, with over 14,500 out of the 146,000 Fee-Free TAFE enrollments being attributed to Technology and Digital courses. This influx of students in technology-related programs is expected to swiftly generate a pool of skilled workers ready to contribute to the growing tech industry.
“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,” Minister for Skills and Training Brendan O’Connor.
The Digital and Tech Skills Working Group will also present a comprehensive report on a proposed ‘Digital Apprenticeship’ scheme to the government next month. This scheme aims to provide practical training and apprenticeship opportunities for individuals pursuing careers in the digital and tech fields.
Additionally, Jobs and Skills Australia, in collaboration with the newly established Jobs and Skills Councils, will serve as a valuable resource for advice on matters impacting the tech industry.
These organizations will offer strategic guidance and practical leadership in tackling skills and workforce challenges, ensuring a sustainable and skilled tech workforce for the future.
“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,” Minister Husic said.