Skills Shortage List Australia: Occupations in Demand in 2026
Published 29 Jan 2024
Should You Invest in Your Skills Before Going Back to Work
Kristen Michaelides 
Are you gearing up to return to work after some time off? Perhaps you took a break to travel, pursue further education or you were on parental leave. Whatever the reason, going back to work or starting a new job can be both exciting and daunting.
But don’t worry – there are ways to ease the transition and prepare yourself for success. One key strategy? Investing in your skill set to meet the demands of the modern workforce.
Recognising the challenges of going back to work
The challenges of reintegrating into the working world after a long absence can be overwhelming, particularly if you’ve been away for an extended period. There may be new technologies, procedures, or even entirely new roles that didn’t exist when you last worked. The pace of change in many industries is rapid, leading to potential skills gaps.
You might also have to grapple with a shift in work culture or the challenge of balancing work and personal life, especially if you’re transitioning from being an at-home parent to a working parent. Recognising these challenges is the first step towards addressing them, and upskilling or reskilling can be a powerful tool in tackling these obstacles.
How to get mentally prepared for going back to work
Returning to work full-time requires not only upskilling, but also strong mental preparation. It’s crucial to establish a positive mindset and focus on the opportunities ahead, rather than being overwhelmed by the challenges.
One useful approach is to set clear, achievable goals related to your career progression. This will give you a sense of purpose and direction as you reintegrate into the workforce.It’s equally important to look after your mental health and wellbeing during this transitional period. This can include setting boundaries around your work hours, making time for relaxation and hobbies, and not being too hard on yourself if everything doesn’t go perfectly straight away.
Remember, it’s okay to feel nervous about returning to work. It’s a big step, but with proper preparation and a positive outlook, you can navigate this transition successfully.
Why investing in skills is important for going back to work
Returning to work for the first time after a career break can be challenging, especially in today’s job market, so it’s essential to upskill to find suitable employment.
In Australia, investing in skills is a wise option for re-entering the workforce, as the current climate demands adaptability and the willingness to upskill. Upskilling and reskilling offer valuable career prospects that enable you to advance your career and achieve long-term goals.
Employers are continually seeking professionals who are adaptable, skilled and possess strong work ethics. By investing in skills, you can showcase your expertise, secure the job of your choice, and steer your career path in the right direction.
How to identify the right skills to invest in
To achieve success in your career, it’s essential to identify the right skills to invest in based on your goals and interests.
1. Develop a work plan
Consider your short-term and long-term career aspirations and identify the skills you’ll need to achieve them.
2. Evaluate your upskilling options
Analyse the tasks and responsibilities that make up your job and identify the skills you need to improve or acquire to excel in these areas.
3. Assess your work environment
Is your line of work highly competitive? Identify the skills that will make you stand out and excel in your role.
By taking these steps, you can identify the right skills to invest in and secure your professional future.
High-income skills you should consider
In the Australian job market, high-income skills allow you to future-proof your career, making you valuable to any employer. succeed in their careers. Here are the top 10 high-income skills you can invest in:
- Product marketing
- Digital marketing
- Software Development Life Cycle (SDLC)
- Business management
- Computer networking
- Web development
- Management consulting
- Retail sales
- Graphic design/web design
- Artificial intelligence
Learn more about each of these skills in our blog Top 10 High Income Skills of 2024 (Based on Real Data).
Common concerns or barriers when going back to work
Upskilling and continuous learning are crucial for career growth and staying competitive. Unfortunately, many peopple face common concerns and barriers that prevent them from pursuing these opportunities before returning to work.
One of the major barriers is time constraints, as many juggle work obligations and personal responsibilities. Financial constraints can also be a challenge, particularly for those with limited resources.
However, there are solutions to these barriers. Online TAFE courses and certifications offer flexibility for busy individuals and can be more cost-effective than traditional education options. Additionally, many companies offer professional development opportunities and may even cover the costs for their employees.
Remote work and flexible work options
The rise of flexible work options has significantly eased the return to the workforce for those unable to physically be in the office.
Remote work opportunities in particular eliminate geographical boundaries, allowing professionals to work from home. This is especially beneficial for those with disabilities, young children, or caregiving responsibilities to family members.
The advent of digital tools and online communication platforms has made collaboration and interaction seamless, ensuring productivity is sustained. As such, remote work has become a viable and often preferred option for many, enabling a better work-life balance, reducing commuting time, and offering flexibility, particularly beneficial for individuals with personal responsibilities.
Investing in your skills now is more crucial than ever. If you’re planning your return work, staying ahead of the curve by expanding your knowledge and expertise is key to securing long-term success. Fortunately, with online learning platforms, professional development courses, and other resources readily available, developing new skills has never been more accessible.
So, take the initiative today and begin investing in yourself – your future career self will thank you for it!
Browse Results
Top Result
Diploma of Building and Construction (Building) (VIC Only) CPC50220
Tackle bigger and more rewarding challenges with our CPC50210 Diploma of Building and Construction (Building). If you feel you’re ready to tackle bigger and more rewarding challenges and start your own building business, then our Diploma building cours...
Study Method In-class, Online
Location Melbourne Victoria
Job Outcomes Project supervisor +5
Certificate IV in Accounting & Bookkeeping FNS40222
Gain key practical skills to prepare you for a range of roles in the accounting sector. This qualification reflects the role of individuals in the accounting and bookkeeping industry, including business activity statement (BAS) agents and contrac...
Study Method Blended, Online
Location Anywhere
Job Outcomes Accountant +1
Certificate III in Accounts Administration FNS30322
During this course you will learn essential accounting fundamentals including processing financial transactions and extracting interim reports. It will also give you the skills and knowledge to complete key support functions like performing financial c...
Study Method Blended, Online
Location Anywhere
Job Outcomes Accountant
Bachelor of Health Science (Naturopathy)
Naturopathy is a whole medical system combining theory (philosophy and principles) and practise that uses an array of natural therapies to support healing and maintain health. Naturopaths aim to treat the underlying causes of illness and disease. The c...
Study Method In-class, Online
Location Adelaide South Australia +5
Job Outcomes Naturopath
Bachelor of Health Science (Clinical Nutrition)
Clinical nutritionists integrate traditional food wisdom and current scientific evidence to motivate individuals and communities to eat well and live healthier lives. The Bachelor of Health Science (Clinical Nutrition) is supported by a strong underpin...
Study Method In-class, Online
Location Adelaide South Australia +5
Job Outcomes Health and Nutritional Consu... +6
Certificate III in Individual Support (Ageing OR Disability) (Perth Only) CHC33021
If you have a passion for helping those most in need, this qualification is one way you can utilise your knowledge for the benefit of others. Package the Certificate III in Individual Support (Ageing or Disability) (CHC33021) to save time and gain know...
Study Method In-class
Location Perth Western Australia +2
Job Outcomes Care Assistant +4
Certificate III in Early Childhood Education & Care (Perth Only) CHC30121
If you love working with children and want to learn more about providing quality education and care in a range of environments, this course is for you. The Certificate lll in Early Childhood Education and Care (CHC30121) can provide you with an entry-l...
Study Method In-class
Location Perth Western Australia +2
Job Outcomes Early Childhood Educator +2
Certificate III in Non-Emergency Patient Transport (VIC Only) HLT31120
Our Promise We are confident in the delivery of our training. On successful completion of the course, graduates will be guaranteed a telephone interview for vacant Patient Transport Officer positions in the Non-Emergency Patient Transport division. So...
Study Method In-class
Location Melbourne Victoria
Job Outcomes Patient Transport Officer
Certificate III in School Based Education Support (Perth Only) CHC30221
Are you interested in becoming a teacher’s aide? Work with teachers to create a comfortable and supportive environment for children’s learning. You will ensure lessons run smoothly while also developing the student’s literacy, numeracy and resear...
Study Method In-class
Location Perth Western Australia +1
Job Outcomes Home Tutor +4
Bachelor of Health Science (Acupuncture Therapies)
Acupuncture is a branch of Chinese Medicine that stimulates specific points on the body to regulate the flow of Qi (vital energy) to restore health and balance the functions of the body, mind and spirit. Acupuncture therapies combines Chinese medicine...
Study Method In-class, Online
Location Adelaide South Australia +5
Job Outcomes Acupuncture +4
Bachelor of Health Science (Chinese Medicine)
Chinese medicine is a whole medical system that seeks to balance the functions of the body, mind and spirit and restore health. It combines theory (philosophies and principles) and practices including acupuncture, moxibustion, medical Qi Gong, Chinese...
Study Method In-class, Online
Location Adelaide South Australia +5
Job Outcomes Acupuncturist +2
Certificate III in Hospitality (Perth Only) SIT30622
The SIT30622 Certificate III in Hospitality is the perfect qualification for those looking for a career in hospitality including working as barista, bar attendant, waiter/waitress. Whether you imagine working in a restaurant, hotel, motel, funky bar, c...
Study Method In-class
Location Western Australia
Job Outcomes Barista +3
Diploma of Sustainable Operations MSS50122
Looking to develop your skills to manage and measure your organisation’s carbon footprint? By studying this course, you will be equipped with the technical and theoretical skills to ensure your organisation is adhering and optimising its sustainability...
Study Method In-class, Online
Location Anywhere
Certificate III in Community Pharmacy (Perth Only) SIR30116
The SIR30116 Certificate III in Community Pharmacy prepares you for a rewarding career as a pharmacy assistant in a retail pharmacy setting. This course equips you with the skills to provide excellent customer service, assist with pharmacy products, an...
Study Method In-class
Location Western Australia
Job Outcomes Pharmacy Assistant +4
Certificate III in Individual Support (Perth Only) CHC33021
The Certificate III in Individual Support equips students with the skills and knowledge to provide person-centred care to individuals in aged care, disability, or community settings. This course is ideal for those passionate about supporting people to...
Study Method In-class
Location Perth Western Australia
Job Outcomes Aged Care Worker +4
Bachelor of Cyber Security (VIC, NSW, QLD and WA Only) CRS1401441
The Bachelor of Cyber Security offered by AIBI Higher Education is a technical course designed to prepare students for entry-level roles leading to an exciting career in Cyber Security. Students will first learn the foundations of information technolog...
Study Method In-class
Location Brisbane Queensland +3
Job Outcomes Entry-level Cybersecurity An... +4
Certificate III in Fitness SIS30321
This exciting course is the fitness industry’s entry-level qualification and it provides a thorough education on the human body, and the best & safest techniques for maximising its potential. With a Certificate III in Fitness you will gain the know...
Study Method In-class, Online
Location Adelaide South Australia +9
Job Outcomes Gym & Fitness Instructor +2
Complete Personal Trainer Program – Certificates III & IV in Fitness SIS30321,SIS40221
Our Personal Trainer Program is a combined Certificate III and Certificate IV in Fitness course that is simply the very best way to become a fully qualified personal trainer. NHFA is devoted to excellence in teaching, learning, implementation, and to d...
Study Method In-class, Online
Location Adelaide South Australia +9
Job Outcomes Personal Trainer +1
Certificate IV in Fitness SIS40221
This course is specifically designed to build on the knowledge and skills gained in a Certificate III in Fitness, and to equip you with a complete understanding of how to train and inspire your own clients to achieve optimum results. You will use a div...
Study Method In-class, Online
Location Adelaide South Australia +9
Job Outcomes Personal Trainer
Certificate III in Individual Support (Ageing and Disability) (QLD Only) CHC33021
This Nationally Accredited Certificate III in Individual Support (Ageing & Disability), will give you the skills and knowledge to work in the Ageing and Disability care industry and support those who are most vulnerable! Work in one of the most rew...
Study Method In-class, Online
Location Queensland
Job Outcomes Aged Care Support Worker +4
Online courses also available
Loading...
Not sure which course to choose? Let us recommend the best courses to suit you!
Subscribe to Our Newsletter
Get expert advice, insights, and explainers on tricky topics — designed to help you navigate your learning journey with confidence.
By submitting this enquiry I accept the "Privacy Policy" and "Terms of Use"
