Students Should Look at VET Amid Widening Skills Shortages

As Australia faces critical workforce shortages across key industries, National Skills Week 2025 (25–31 August) will shine a spotlight on the power of vocational education and training (VET) to transform lives.

“Explore ALL the Options!”, is this year’s theme for National Skills Week and they are calling on school leavers, career changers, job seekers, and parents to consider VET as a first-choice pathway into high-growth, high-demand industries - from health and construction to digital tech and aviation.

Australia is facing an urgent need for skilled workers across a range of sectors. Key shortages include:
• Trades & Technical Roles - Over 50% of occupations in trades are in national shortage, especially construction and food trades.
• Healthcare Professionals - Major shortages persist in regional and urban areas, impacting essential service delivery.
• Information and Communications Technology (ICT) Specialists - Nearly 70% of roles in the ICT sector are in short supply, particularly digital transformation and cybersecurity roles.
• Tourism & Hospitality Workers - Severe shortages across hotels, events, food services, and travel operations are impacting Australia’s visitor economy, with demand for skilled chefs, event managers, and front-line staff at a high.
• Engineering Experts - Engineers are in high demand across mining, infrastructure, and renewable energy.
• Forensic Psychiatrists - South Australia faces a critical shortage, affecting mental health and justice systems.

The skills Australia needs are rapidly evolving in AI & Digital Transformation for instance – investment in AI and emerging technologies is essential to lift national productivity.

New qualifications, VET-Based Degrees in fields like mining and metallurgy are being introduced to address shortages and offer practical alternatives to traditional university pathways.

The opening of Western Sydney International Airport is projected to create 10,000 new jobs by 2031, driving demand for local training and upskilling in the aviation industry.

“We want to challenge outdated perceptions of vocational education and show that VET is a launchpad to real, meaningful, and prosperous careers,” said National Skills Week Chair Brian Wexham.

“VET can be the ultimate game-changer, providing skills for jobs that exist now and into the future - across sectors like AI, healthcare, climate response, infrastructure, and cyber security.”

For more information or to get involved, visit: nationalskillsweek.com.au.