In the rapidly evolving world of technology, Melbourne is positioning itself as Australia’s new tech jobs capital, boasting an impressive 190,000 local tech workers. According to recent data from the Tech Council of Australia, the sector is not only growing but also leading the way in promoting gender pay equity and cultural diversity, setting an example for other industries to follow.
Kate Pounder, Chief Executive Officer of the Tech Council of Australia, shared her insights on this booming sector. “This is absolutely a national boom,” Kate explained. “In the 2000s, we had the mining boom. This decade, it’s the tech jobs boom, and Melbourne is absolutely one of the hot spots in the country.”
Melbourne’s appeal to the tech industry can be attributed to several factors. The city is home to a robust set of companies like Seek, Xero, CarSales, and up-and-coming players like Airwallex, all contributing to job creation. Additionally, Melbourne’s educational institutions are producing a steady stream of skilled workers ready to fill these roles.
While Melbourne and Sydney are leading the charge, other regions are not far behind. “Five of the fastest-growing areas for tech workers are in Queensland, and two are in Adelaide,” Kate noted, highlighting that the entire country is experiencing this tech-driven growth.
The demand for tech jobs is driven by the digitization of industries across the board. With 860,000 people currently employed in tech roles nationwide, the sector has seen a 66% job growth rate since 2005, more than double the rate of the broader economy. The COVID-19 pandemic further accelerated this trend, with 65,000 new tech jobs created in the first year alone.
This boom in tech jobs is also proving to be particularly beneficial for women. The sector has only half the gender pay gap of other high-paying industries and offers some of the highest rates of flexible work arrangements. However, there is still a significant challenge in attracting more women to the field. “One in four people working in tech sector jobs in Australia today are women,” Kate said. “I’d really love to see that proportion go up.”
Looking ahead, the Tech Council of Australia forecasts that the country will need to fill one million tech jobs by 2025, requiring an additional 280,000 people to enter the sector. This presents a crucial opportunity for Australia to address potential economic downturns, low wages growth, and productivity challenges.
The future of Australia’s tech sector looks incredibly bright. Over the last decade, 67 companies have been created in Australia, each valued at over $100 million. These companies are generating thousands of well-paid, sustainable jobs that remain within the country. However, the biggest challenge remains the skill shortage. Many Australians are interested in entering the tech field but feel they need help reskilling.
As an IT services company, we at Ateam Soft Solutions recognize the significant opportunities this growth presents. We are committed to supporting the tech community by providing high-quality training, fostering diversity, and helping bridge the skills gap in Australia. Whether you’re a company looking to scale or a professional seeking to enter this dynamic industry, we’re here to help you navigate the challenges and seize the opportunities that lie ahead.
The tech sector is not just a promising industry; it’s a critical part of Australia’s economic future. By embracing this growth and ensuring that all Australians have the chance to participate, we can build a thriving, inclusive, and innovative tech landscape that benefits everyone.
