One in five careers will see stark changes over the next five years, according to new report
Delivery drivers, nurses, and electric vehicle specialists are set to be among the most sought-after roles in Australia by 2030, according to the newly released 2025 Future of Jobs Report.
Published by the Australian Industry Group in partnership with the World Economic Forum, the report outlines the significant transformations expected to shape the workforce over the next five years. The findings are based on a survey of 1,000 employers representing 14 million workers across 22 industries.
The Future of Jobs Report 2025 predicts a net increase of 78 million jobs globally by 2030, with Australia experiencing a 7% growth in total employment. However, these changes will not come without disruption. Approximately 20% of careers are expected to undergo fundamental shifts due to the rapid pace of social, economic, and technological changes.
Roles expected to see the most growth include:
At the same time, some professions may experience a decline. Clerical and secretarial roles are projected to see the largest reductions in demand as automation and AI reshape workplace priorities.
The report emphasizes the importance of upskilling and reskilling as Australia faces what it terms "skill instability." By 2030, 39% of current skill sets are expected to become outdated or transformed.
Recognizing this challenge, 85% of employers plan to prioritize workforce upskilling over the next five years.
One standout finding is the anticipated rise in demand for analytical thinking as the most highly valued skill. This competency will be critical in a workforce increasingly reliant on AI and digital tools.
Innes Willox, CEO of the Australian Industry Group, highlighted the importance of proactive workforce planning to address the challenges ahead.
“This report demonstrates the importance of building the capability and size of Australia’s workforce now and over the coming years,” Willox said.
“Skill gaps remain the largest barrier to business transformation, cited by 63% of employers globally. While organizations are making significant efforts to upskill and diversify their workforces, these efforts must be complemented by effective public job policies.”
From facilitating reskilling programs to integrating technology-focused training, HR leaders will play a pivotal role in preparing organizations for the demands of the .
This transformation presents not just challenges but also opportunities for those who embrace the change, ensuring their teams are equipped to thrive in the evolving employment landscape.
