The Australian Government has recently shared its Labour Market Report for 2025, providing important insights into job trends, skills in demand, and opportunities available for overseas workers. This detailed analysis helps skilled migrants identify which sectors are expanding and what visa options they can explore to work in Australia.
TUCNigeria notes that the report not only highlights the country’s economic resilience but also sheds light on evolving workforce needs. Understanding these shifts is crucial for skilled professionals who wish to contribute to Australia’s growing industries while securing legal work opportunities through the available visa programs.
Growing Sectors with Promising Job Prospects
The 2025 Labour Market Report reveals that certain sectors are experiencing significant growth due to increased demand for skilled professionals. Data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) indicates that industries like healthcare, education, and hospitality are seeing rapid expansion. In the coming year, the following sectors are expected to create the most jobs:
- Healthcare and Social Assistance: +70,200 jobs
- Education and Training: +54,900 jobs
- Accommodation and Food Services: +42,700 jobs
- Electricity, Gas, Water and Waste Services: 8.0% growth rate
- Rental, Hiring, and Real Estate Services: 6.1% growth rate
These industries not only promise job security but also provide diverse roles for skilled migrants, especially in healthcare and education where demand remains consistently high.
Industries Facing a Decline
While some industries are expanding, others are witnessing a decline. The report indicates that sectors traditionally associated with white-collar jobs are losing momentum. The following industries have recorded notable job losses:
- Manufacturing: -16,400 jobs
- Financial and Insurance Services: -7,800 jobs
- Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services: -7,200 jobs
According to TUCNigeria, this shift points to a growing preference for practical skills and service-based roles over traditional desk jobs. Migrants with hands-on expertise in emerging fields are more likely to find job openings in 2025.
High-Demand Occupations for Skilled Migrants
The Australian Government’s Occupation Shortage List for 2025 has identified several professions with critical workforce gaps. Skilled migrants with qualifications and experience in the following fields are highly encouraged to apply:
- Engineering: Civil, Electrical, Mechanical, and Mining Engineers
- Healthcare: Registered Nurses, Aged Care Workers, Medical Practitioners
- Education: Early Childhood and Secondary School Teachers (Math, Science)
- Trades and Technicians: Electricians, Plumbers, Construction Workers
- Hospitality: Chefs, Hotel Managers, Event Planners
These jobs play a vital role in supporting Australia’s economy, and professionals in these categories can explore tailored visa pathways to work and live in the country.
Regional Employment Insights for Migrants
Employment opportunities in Australia vary by state and territory, with some regions offering more skilled jobs than others. According to the 2025 report:
- Australian Capital Territory (ACT): Highest concentration of skilled jobs, with 61% of the workforce in professional, technical, and managerial roles.
- Victoria and New South Wales (NSW): Over 54% of employment opportunities align with high-demand occupations.
- Western Australia (WA) and South Australia (SA): Increasing demand for healthcare and construction professionals.
- Queensland and Northern Territory: Slower growth, but opportunities in trade and agricultural sectors remain.
TUCNigeria recommends that skilled migrants target ACT, Victoria, and NSW if seeking high-skilled jobs, or consider WA and SA for positions in trade and technical fields.
Unemployment Trends and Migrant Employment
Australia’s national unemployment rate stands at 4.0%, slightly higher than 2023’s 3.9%. The breakdown by region shows:
- ACT: Lowest unemployment rate at 3.2%
- Victoria and Northern Territory: Highest unemployment rates at 4.4%
Migrant employment rates differ based on country of origin and language proficiency. For instance:
- Migrants from North-West Europe: 3.0% unemployment
- Migrants from North Africa and the Middle East: 6.9% unemployment
These statistics underline the importance of language skills, local work experience, and professional qualifications when seeking employment in Australia.
Work Visa Options for Skilled Migrants
Australia offers various visa pathways for skilled migrants. In 2025, these four visa types are expected to be most relevant:
- Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) Visa (Subclass 482)
- For professionals like engineers, healthcare workers, and tradespeople
- Requires employer sponsorship
- Can lead to permanent residency
- Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190)
- Requires nomination by an Australian state or territory
- Offers direct permanent residency
- Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa (Subclass 491)
- Targets skilled workers willing to live in regional Australia
- Priority given to high-demand professions
- Global Talent Visa (Subclass 858)
- Designed for highly skilled individuals in engineering, technology, and healthcare
- Provides an expedited path to permanent residency
Final Thoughts
The release of Australia’s 2025 Labour Market Report provides valuable guidance for skilled migrants eager to work and live in the country. With expanding sectors like healthcare, education, and hospitality, along with streamlined visa pathways, the opportunities are promising. As TUCNigeria observes, staying informed about these trends and aligning qualifications with in-demand occupations will greatly enhance the chances of successful employment and visa approval in Australia. Skilled workers from various fields are encouraged to consider these developments and explore the possibilities that await them in 2025.