If you're job hunting or planning a career move, the latest Intergenerational Report (IGR) is worth a look. It's a government forecast rather than a job ad, but it offers a rare long-range view of which parts of the economy are likely to grow, and where the demand for workers will come from.
The Headline for Job Seekers: Workers Will Be in Demand
Australia's population is ageing and birth rates are falling. The fertility rate is projected to drop to 1.34 children per woman by 2065–66, and deaths are expected to outnumber births by the 2060s. The country is still forecast to grow to 39.3 million people, mainly through migration.
For anyone looking for work, the key figure is unemployment, which the report expects to settle around 4.25% over the long run. That points to a job market where employers will keep competing for skilled people.
Six Big Shifts and What They Mean for Your Career
The report highlights major transitions that will reshape the economy. Here's how they translate into career paths.
1. The ageing and care economy. With the number of Australians aged 65+ set to nearly double, demand for health and aged care will keep rising. Think nursing, personal care, allied health, disability support and community services.
2. The energy transition. Australia is aiming for net zero by 2050 and hopes to become a "renewable energy superpower." That could open roles in engineering, electrical trades, project management and critical minerals.
3. AI and technology. The report says AI's effect on jobs is uncertain and depends on how it develops and spreads. The practical lesson is to keep learning, since adaptable skills will hold their value.
4. A services-based economy. Growth is moving further toward services, so skills in IT, finance, education, marketing and professional services should stay relevant.
5. Industrial transformation. Existing industries will change, and workers who can move between sectors will have more options.
6. Generational fairness. The report acknowledges that younger workers face housing barriers, though they'll benefit from a maturing superannuation system. This may influence where and how people choose to live and work.
Your Working Life in Numbers
- 1. Real income per person is projected to rise 55% by 2065–66.
- 2. Average weekly hours per employee are expected to ease from 31.4 to 30.6, reflecting more part-time work.
- 3. Labour force participation is forecast to peak at 67.7% in 2039–40 before easing to 64.7%.
- 4. Capital cities are expected to grow about twice as fast as regional areas, though regional employers may look harder for talent.
Thinking of Moving to Australia?
The report assumes net overseas migration of about 235,000 a year, and notes that a typical recent migrant is around 26 years old. That signals that skilled overseas workers are expected to play a big part in filling gaps. But policy isn't fixed. The Opposition and One Nation have both said they'd aim for much lower migration numbers, so the rules could change. If you're considering a move, check current requirements and prepare early.
Practical Steps to Take Now
- 1) Pick a growth sector. Care, energy, technology and professional services are the areas the report points to.
- 2) Build transferable skills. Digital literacy, communication and problem-solving carry across industries.
- 3) Keep your documents ready. Updated résumé, references, qualifications and, for overseas applicants, English test results.
- Consider location. Capital cities offer more openings, but regional areas may offer less competition and other benefits.
- Never stop learning. Short courses and certifications are a low-cost way to stay ahead as roles change.
The Bottom Line
Forecasts can miss. The very first IGR underestimated how quickly the population would grow. But the direction here is clear: Australia expects to need more workers in care, energy and technology, and the job seekers who prepare now will be best placed to benefit.
