Top 5 In-Demand Job Sectors in Australia - PR Pathways & Salary Insights
Australia continues to face skill shortages in key industries, providing significant opportunities for international students and skilled migrants. If you’re considering studying or working in Australia, choosing a career in a high-demand sector can improve your job prospects and PR eligibility. Here are the top five sectors in-demand job sectors in Australia, along with key occupations in each.
1. Healthcare & Social Assistance
Registered Nurse (ANZSCO 2544)
Nurses are in high demand across Australia, with shortages expected to grow over the next decade. The government is fast-tracking visa processing for overseas-trained nurses.
Average Salary: AUD 82,942 per year
Job Outlook: The healthcare industry is growing rapidly due to an aging population and increased healthcare needs. Specialisation in mental health, aged care, and critical care are particularly in demand.
PR Pathway? ✅ Yes. Nursing roles are on the Core Skills Occupation List (CSOL), making them eligible for Employer-sponsored visas Subclass 482 (Skills in demand) and Subclass 186, and are also on the skilled occupation list for Subclass 189, 190, 491 visas
Aged Care Worker (ANZSCO 423111)
With Australia’s aging population, there is a critical shortage of aged care professionals.
Average Salary: AUD 60,000 – 80,000 per year
Job Outlook: Aged care workers provide essential personal care, companionship, and assistance with daily living activities for older adults.
PR Pathway? ✅ Yes. Aged care roles are eligible under the Employer-Sponsored 186 Visa but are not on the CSOL for independent PR pathways.
2. Engineering
Civil Engineer (ANZSCO 233211)
With ongoing infrastructure projects, demand for civil engineers remains high.
Average Salary: AUD 110,000 – 150,000 per year
Job Outlook: Civil engineers design, build, and maintain essential infrastructure like roads, bridges, and airports.
PR Pathway? ✅ Yes. Civil Engineering roles are on the Core Skills Occupation List (CSOL), making them eligible for Employer-sponsored visas Subclass 482 (Skills in demand) and Subclass 186, and are also on the skilled occupation list for Subclass 189, 190, 491 visas.
Electrical Engineer (ANZSCO 233311)
The demand for electrical engineers is expected to grow due to renewable energy projects and infrastructure expansion.
Average Salary: AUD 105,000 – 140,000 per year
Job Outlook: Electrical engineers work in power generation, automation, and telecommunications.
PR Pathway? ✅ Yes. Electrical Engineering roles are on the Core Skills Occupation List (CSOL), making them eligible for Employer-sponsored visas Subclass 482 (Skills in demand) and Subclass 186, and are also on the skilled occupation list for Subclass 189, 190, 491 visas.
3. Information Technology (IT)
Software Engineer (ANZSCO 261313)
Australia's booming tech industry requires software engineers with skills in AI, cybersecurity, and cloud computing.
Average Salary: AUD 125,000 per year
Job Outlook: The demand for professionals in cloud computing and artificial intelligence is particularly strong.
PR Pathway? ✅ Yes. Software Engineering roles are on the Core Skills Occupation List (CSOL), making them eligible for Employer-sponsored visas Subclass 482 (Skills in demand) and Subclass 186, and are also on the skilled occupation list for Subclass 189, 190, 491 visas
Cybersecurity Specialist (ANZSCO 262112)
As cyber threats increase, the demand for cybersecurity specialists is rising across all industries.
Average Salary: AUD 110,000 – 160,000 per year
Job Outlook: Cybersecurity specialists protect networks, detect security breaches, and mitigate cyber threats.
PR Pathway? ✅ Yes. Cybersecurity roles are on the Core Skills Occupation List (CSOL), making them eligible for Employer-sponsored visas Subclass 482 (Skills in demand) and Subclass 186.
4. Education & Training
Early Childhood Teacher (ANZSCO 241111)
Australia has a growing demand for qualified early childhood teachers. The Australian government has invested heavily in building the early childhood education sector in Australia.
Average Salary: AUD 75,000 – 95,000 per year
Job Outlook: This profession is highly valued, especially in rural and regional areas.
PR Pathway? ✅ Yes. Teaching are on the Core Skills Occupation List (CSOL), making them eligible for Employer-sponsored visas Subclass 482 (Skills in demand) and Subclass 186, and are also on the skilled occupation list for Subclass 189, 190, 491 visas.
Secondary School Teacher (ANZSCO 241411)
There is a nationwide shortage of teachers, especially in STEM subjects and regional areas.
Average Salary: AUD 80,000 – 100,000 per year
Job Outlook: Teachers in STEM and special education are in particularly high demand.
PR Pathway? ✅ Yes. Teaching roles are on the Core Skills Occupation List (CSOL), making them eligible for Employer-sponsored visas Subclass 482 (Skills in demand) and Subclass 186, and are also on the skilled occupation list for Subclass 189, 190, 491 visas.
5. Construction & Skilled Trades
Carpenter (ANZSCO 331212)
Due to major housing and infrastructure projects, Australia has an urgent demand for skilled carpenters.
Average Salary: AUD 65,000 – 90,000 per year
Job Outlook: Carpenters build and repair structures such as houses, offices, and commercial buildings.
PR Pathway? ✅ Yes. Carpentry roles are on the Core Skills Occupation List (CSOL), making them eligible for Employer-sponsored visas Subclass 482 (Skills in demand) and Subclass 186, and are also on the skilled occupation list for Subclass 189, 190, 491 visas.
Electrician (ANZSCO 341111)
Australia needs 32,000 more electricians by 2030 to support renewable energy projects.
Average Salary: AUD 80,000 – 110,000 per year
Job Outlook: Electricians with experience in solar and battery storage systems are in high demand.
PR Pathway? ✅ Yes. Electrician roles are on the Core Skills Occupation List (CSOL), making them eligible for Employer-sponsored visas Subclass 482 (Skills in demand) and Subclass 186, and are also on the skilled occupation list for Subclass 189, 190, 491 visas.
Why You Should Consider These Top 5 In-Demand Job Sectors in Australia
If you're an international student or skilled worker, choosing a career that aligns with Australia’s job shortages can increase your chances of employment and permanent residency. Here’s why these in-demand jobs are worth considering:
Higher PR Eligibility – Many of these occupations are on the Core Skills Occupation List (CSOL), making PR applications smoother.
Competitive Salaries – With salaries ranging from AUD $60,000 to $150,000+, these jobs offer financial stability.
Strong Job Growth – Industries like healthcare, engineering, and IT are expected to grow significantly over the next decade.
Work-Life Balance – Many of these careers offer flexible working conditions, job security, and career progression.
Regional Opportunities – Some jobs, like teaching and trade skills, are in even higher demand in regional Australia, increasing PR chances.
How RACC Can Help You Get Top 5 In-Demand Job Sectors in Australia
Choosing an in-demand job in Australia can boost your career prospects and PR chances. With growing skill shortages, now is the perfect time to secure a stable job, competitive salary, and a future in Australia.
At RACC Migration & Education, we specialise in helping international students and skilled migrants find the right course, job pathway, and visa options for Australia.
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