The good news for future apprentices is that employment across the state is expected to continue growing. In fact, the Ministerial industry Commission predicts that employment in the state will peak over the next few years, at times reaching almost four per cent growth a year.
For other states around the country, these figures are much lower. In fact, the rest of Australia is expected to record employment growth of only around two per cent. This sets Queensland well ahead of other states over the next few years.
By industry, some areas can expect strong growth. Healthcare is set to be the fastest-growing industry, contributing roughly 112,000 new jobs in the last decade. Other rapidly growing industries have been mining (55,000) and construction (75,000).
These industries are also the ones predicted to see the greatest growth over the next five years, with each contributing to Queensland outpacing other states.
In addition to seeing positive growth across a range of different industries, there are also good signs for industries that are declining elsewhere. Manufacturing employment for example, is expected to see a steady decline nationwide over the next five years, but in Queensland it is actually expected to grow in size.
The same trend is also expected for agricultural and forestry, with these areas growing in Queensland, while other parts of the country see a decline.
Some areas are also expected to see considerable increases in employment, with the Sunshine Coast, Toowoomba and the Gold Coast all forecasting above-average employment. This will be good news for those seeking apprenticeships in Toowoomba or other areas with high employment growth.
With many of the highest-growth industries requiring an apprenticeship or traineeship in order to get into, these will offer a new round of opportunities for those seeking employment.
As a result, the number of people holding a level III or IV certificate is expected to see much greater growth across the country. By 2019, 960,000 workers will fit into this category, up from 760,000 who currently hold this level of qualification.
Certificates at levels III and IV are also predicted to be in higher demand, with growth in these qualifications outpacing both lower-level certificates and diplomas.
For anyone seeking work in Queensland, these trends will be a welcome boost, especially for those looking to undertake an apprenticeship or traineeship.
By Leanne de Toerkenczy, Public Relations Coordinator
