Skills Shortage List Australia: Occupations in Demand in 2026
Published 23 Jan 2024
The Best Jobs for a Career Change in Australia
Michael Yi 
Explore the best job options for a career change in Australia! This blog provides insights into lucrative and fulfilling industries for a fresh start.
Are you feeling stuck in a dead-end job or just craving a career change? You’re not alone. Whether driven by dissatisfaction in your current job or the desire for financial stability, deciding to switch careers can be intimidating and overwhelming.
But fear not! Australia has plenty of opportunities if you’re looking to make a fresh start. In this article, we’ll go through some of the best jobs for a career change in Australia and provide valuable insights on how to successfully transition into a new industry.
Career changes in Australia and the growing job market
In Australia, career changes are becoming increasingly common. Research indicates that majority of people change careers at least once in their lives, with an average of 3-7 career transitions. Surprisingly, in a LinkedIn survey, 59% of Australians are planning on changing employers this year, with 56% confident they can find a new job. These statistics emphasise the numerous opportunities and eagerness of individuals looking to shift into different positions within the Australian job market.
The top industries and jobs for career changes
As the job market continues to evolve, it’s becoming increasingly common for people to change their career paths and venture into new fields. Fortunately, there are many career opportunities in high-demand industries.
Technology/IT
- Cyber security analyst: This role is perfect for those who have a keen analytical mind, strong technical skills, and an ongoing passion for learning about evolving threats and technologies. In Australia, the average cyber security analyst salary is $80,000.
- We recommend a qualification in cyber security to get started in this career.
- Network administrator: This role is ideal for those interested in configuring and maintaining computer networks, troubleshooting connectivity issues, and implementing security measures. In Australia, the average network administrator salary is $75,000.
- We recommend a certificate in network administration to get started in this career.
- Web developer: This role is great for those who enjoy being creative in designing and building websites using coding. In Australia, the average web developer salary is $65,000.
- We recommend a certificate course in web development to get started in this career.
Healthcare
- Nursing assistant: You’ll find this role fulfilling if you’re compassionate, empathetic, and have a genuine desire to help others often. In Australia, The average nursing assistant salary is $60,000.
- We recommend a certificate in health services to get started in this career.
- Dental assistant: This role is suited for those who are detail-oriented, organised, and have a strong interest in oral health. In Australia, the average dental assistant salary is $60,000.
- We recommend a certificate in dental assisting to get started in this career.
- Pharmacy technician: This role is perfect for those interested in assisting pharmacists in dispensing medications, managing inventory, and providing customer service. In Australia, the average pharmacy technician salary is $60,000.
- We recommend a certificate in health to get started in this career.
Finance and business analysis
- Financial planner: This role is great for those who enjoy helping others plan for their financial goals, possess knowledge of investment strategies, and can navigate the complexities of financial markets. In Australia, The average financial planner salary is $90,000.
- We recommend a qualification in finance to get started in this career.
- Business analyst: This role is ideal for those who thrive on solving complex business problems and collaborating with various stakeholders to make data-driven recommendations. In Australia, the average business analyst salary is $85,000.
- We recommend a certificate in business to get started in this career.
- Data analyst: This role is perfect for those with a passion in interpreting and deriving insights from data. In Australia, the average data analyst salary is $75,000.
- We recommend a qualification in data analysis to get started in this career.
Education and training
- Early childhood educator: This role is great for those who have a genuine passion for creating a positive and stimulating learning environment, fostering the social, emotional, and cognitive development of children. In Australia, the average early childhood educator salary is $60,000.
- We recommend a qualification in early childhood education to get started in this career.
- Vocational trainer: This role is perfect for those who have a passion in educating those who are looking to get a specific job or trade. In Australia, the average vocational trainer salary is $70,000.
- We recommend a certificate in training and assessment to get started in this career
- Teacher’s aide: This role is great for those who would enjoy assisting classroom teachers in various tasks, such as providing additional help to students, managing classroom activities, and offering support to students with diverse learning needs. In Australia, the average teacher’s aide salary is $60,000.
- We recommend a certificate in school based education support to get started in this career.
The importance of continuous learning and upskilling in a new career
In today’s competitive job market, it is essential to continually learn and upskill to succeed in a new career. With advancements in technology and evolving consumer trends, industries are continuously changing, and staying up to date is crucial. Employers look for candidates who possess the skills to adapt to dynamic work environments and can handle new challenges.
By investing time and resources in continuous learning and upskilling, you can better position yourself for career growth and development. Seeking out training programs, attending professional development seminars, and networking with peers can all contribute to building a robust skill set and keeping your knowledge current.
For those considering a career change in Australia, there are a number of opportunities available across a range of industries. With a growing and diversifying economy, there’s a constant demand for skilled workers in industries such as IT, healthcare, business, and education.
Taking the leap towards a new career can be daunting, but the potential rewards and support available make it a viable option for those seeking a change.
Find a course today
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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 III in Community Services (Perth Only) CHC32015
The Certificate III in Community Services is perfect for entry level community services workers who support individuals through the provision of person-centred services. Work may include day-to-day support of individuals in community settings or suppor...
Study Method In-class
Location Western Australia
Job Outcomes Community Support Worker +3
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
Diploma of Community Services (Perth Only) CHC52025
The Diploma of Community Services qualification reflects the roles of community services, case management and social housing workers involved in the managing, co-ordinating and/or delivering of person-centred services to individuals, groups and communi...
Study Method In-class
Location Perth Western Australia
Job Outcomes Community Services Case Mana... +4
Certificate III in Allied Health Assistance (Perth Only) HLT33021
A Certificate III in Allied Health is your entrance into the world of health services! This course will teach you to support workers in a range of fields such as audiology to social work. You will use your qualification to gain an entry-level job in ei...
Study Method In-class
Location Perth Western Australia +2
Job Outcomes Physiotherapist Aide +4
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
Certificate III in Individual Support (Perth Only) CHC33021
This qualification is for those who want to work in the community or in a residential setting, following a customised plan to give person-centred assistance to individuals who may need it due to ageing, disability or other circumstances. Work involves...
Study Method In-class
Location Perth Western Australia
Job Outcomes Aged Care Worker +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
Diploma of Beauty Therapy (QLD Only) SHB50121
Turn your passion for beauty into a career that actually goes somewhere. The SHB50121 Diploma of Beauty Therapy is Demi International’s comprehensive beauty course — covering everything from skin science and facial treatments to massage, hair rem...
Study Method In-class, Online
Location Brisbane Queensland +4
Job Outcomes Graduates of the Diploma of ... +9
Certificate III in Hairdressing Course (QLD Only) SHB30416
Hairdressing is one of those careers where you see the impact of your work every single day — in the mirror, and on the face of your client. The SHB30416 Certificate III in Hairdressing gives you the technical skills and creative foundation to start yo...
Study Method In-class, Online
Location Brisbane Queensland +4
Job Outcomes A Certificate III in Hairdre... +6
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
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
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