Australia’s digital jobs to grow by 47% in 2026
CANBERRA, AUSTRALIA — The demand for high-level digital skills in Australia is set to increase by 47% within the next five years, according to a report from the Future Skills Organisation (FSO).
The country is expected to need over 420,000 additional digital professionals, including roles like programmers and analysts, by 2026.
The report highlighted four key observations in the country’s job market, including the necessity of digital skills for all workers; how the standardization of the definition of digital skills across the economy is vital; and the importance of digital skills training.
The study also unearthed a troubling disconnect, as 50% of VET graduates report that their learned skills don’t align with their current jobs.
With the increasing demand for digital experts showing “no signs of slowing,” Australia could confront a shortage of nearly 370,000 digital workers by 2026 if current trends persist.
FSO CEO Patrick Kidd said, “The report provides us with the empirical evidence we need to champion digital skilling and reskilling across Australia.”
“I believe that we can create a flexible, robust, and innovative VET system that provides opportunities for all Australians to acquire the in-demand skills of tomorrow and to meet industry needs,” he added.
