Welcome to the tech industry in Australia, a landscape of contrasts. On one hand, we see a sector that’s growing, with the Tech Council of Australia (TCA) reporting an 8% growth over the past year, adding more than 10,000 jobs in just the first quarter of 2023. By February 2023, the total tech workforce had increased by 70,000 jobs to 935,000.
Yet, on the other hand, the journey is challenging. Founders, top management, seasoned professionals, and entry-level engineers alike face a tough road. Even those currently employed, constantly looking over their shoulder at the possibility of the next big layoff.
The tech industry is vibrant and dynamic, with a significant number of new roles appearing in the indirect tech sector, which includes tech-intensive jobs within non-tech industries such as retail, banking, professional services, government, and mining. This is a testament to the integral role tech jobs are playing in every aspect of the Australian economy.
However, it’s crucial to approach these figures with a discerning eye. We must question the data. How was it collected? Who was included in the study? Is there any potential bias? What is the broader context? Are there other reputable sources that present different data or interpretations?
There will be moments when it feels like your career and time spent in the tech industry is a mirage. But like all things, this too shall pass. The only thing you can control is your thoughts of being trapped in a cycle of job applications and rejections, and how you gather the strength to apply for the next position.
Despite layoffs in prominent companies, the tech sector has held its ground. For every job lost over the past quarter, 20 more were created. The average wages for tech jobs remain high at around $130K+. But these figures don’t negate the reality of the competition and the challenges faced by many in the industry.
The tech industry is not a walk in the park. It’s a journey where resilience is key. Every step forward is a step towards victory, but the path is not always smooth. The tech industry needs you, and your moment to shine is on the horizon, but it may take time and perseverance to get there.
The TCA is aiming to reach 1.2 million tech jobs by 2030, which means another 265,000 jobs need to be created in the next 6.5 years. But is this a realistic goal? And if so, what strategies and initiatives are necessary to achieve this target?
The future is filled with opportunities, but it’s also filled with challenges. It’s up to us to seize them. But it’s also up to us to question, to probe, and to demand transparency and accountability. Because it’s not just about surviving in the tech industry — it’s about navigating its complexities and emerging stronger. So, let’s continue this journey, with curiosity in our minds and determination in our hearts.
https://medium.com/@DebaA/tech-job-market-in-australia-a-realistic-outlook-amidst-growth-and-challenges-7c9a16d7f012
