The Top 5 Most In-Demand Jobs in Australia for 2025 and 2026

Australia’s job market is shifting rapidly, shaped by an aging population, digital transformation, infrastructure investment, and growing demands in education. For anyone considering a career change, retraining, or advising others on future opportunities, it’s clear some industries will dominate the employment landscape in the next two years.

Here are the top five most in-demand jobs in Australia for 2025 and 2026.

1. Registered Nurses and Aged Care Workers

Healthcare remains at the forefront of Australia’s workforce needs. The combination of an aging population and increasing demand for aged and disability services means that registered nurses, support workers, and carers are in critically short supply.

Victoria alone is projected to need more than 10,000 new registered nurses and nearly 18,000 aged and disability carers by 2026.
With reforms in aged care and rising community expectations, this sector will continue to grow as one of the nation’s largest employers.

2. Software Developers and Programmers

Technology continues to reshape every industry, from finance and retail to healthcare and logistics. Skilled software developers and application programmers are already in short supply, and the demand is only intensifying.

Employers are seeking specialists in cloud computing, AI, app development, and systems integration.
Victoria forecasts more than 4,000 new developer roles by 2026, but demand is nationwide.

3. Cybersecurity Specialists

As businesses and governments move further into the digital world, the risks of cybercrime and data breaches are escalating. Cybersecurity has shifted from a niche IT role to a frontline business necessity.

Companies are urgently hiring professionals skilled in digital security, compliance, and risk management.
With the rise of AI-driven attacks and heightened privacy regulations, cybersecurity is expected to remain one of the fastest-growing job categories in Australia.

4. Construction Managers, Civil Engineers, and Skilled Trades

Australia’s infrastructure and housing pipeline is driving enormous demand for skilled workers across the construction sector. From managing large-scale projects to hands-on trades, the opportunities are broad.

Construction managers and civil engineers are ranked among the top in-demand roles.
Skilled trades, particularly electricians, are also facing shortages. In fact, it’s estimated that 32,000 more electricians will be needed by 2030, partly due to the renewable energy boom.

5. Teachers and Early Childhood Educators

Education is another sector under strain. Teacher shortages across primary, secondary, and early childhood settings are placing pressure on schools and childcare services nationwide.

Victoria alone expects to require over 10,000 new teachers by 2026.
Early childhood educators are particularly in demand, with more than 6,000 new roles forecast in the coming years.

Why These Jobs Lead the Market

These five categories reflect a mix of demographic trends, policy priorities, and economic growth areas:

Healthcare and education are people-driven and essential services.
Tech and cybersecurity align with digital transformation.
Construction and trades are fuelled by infrastructure and renewable energy projects.

For job seekers, students, or migrants, these industries represent not just employment opportunities but long-term career stability.

If you’re planning your next move, the safest bet lies in roles tied to healthcare, technology, construction, and education. These sectors are not just hiring now, they’re set to expand well into 2026 and beyond, shaping the future of Australia’s workforce.