The Health Care and Social Assistance industry is projected to see the most jobs growth between November 2021 and November 2026, followed by the Professional, Scientific and Technical Services industry, according to new employment projections released by the National Skills Commission.

The importance of the 4 Cs (Care, Computing, Cognitive ability and Communication), outlined as some of the key skill needs of the future in the NSC’s report State of Australia’s Skills 2021: now and into the future, are evident in the occupational projections. Aged and Disabled Carers, Software and Application Programmers, and Registered Nurses are among the jobs that are projected to grow the most over the next five years.

The Health Care and Social Assistance industry is projected to have the largest increase, adding 301,000 jobs, followed by the Professional, Scientific and Technical Services industry (206,600 jobs). The new figures show an economy that is rebounding from the shock of the pandemic. Accommodation and Food Services employment is projected to increase by 112,400 and surpass pre-COVID levels.

More than nine-in-ten new jobs are projected to require post-school qualifications, reflecting the importance of tertiary education and skills development. Over half the new jobs are projected to be Skill Level 1 occupations (usually requiring a Bachelor degree or higher).

The need for Vocational Education and Training skills and training is also evident, with projected employment growth for Skill Level 4 occupations (usually requiring a Certificate II or III) expected to grow by 252,600.

The full Employment Outlook, covering industry and occupation trends over the five years to November 2026, is available on the NSC website.