Are you considering a career change this year? Whether it is due to general redundancy, wanting to upskill yourself, looking for a pay rise, or simply feeling burnt out in your current role (we’ve all been there), make sure you assess your options before making a move.
The great news is, we’ve done the research for you. In this article you will discover:
- Top growth industries for 2026
- In demand job roles
- Qualifications to get you there
According to Jobs and Skills Australia, total employment in Australia is projected to grow by 961,000 (6.5%) over the next 5 years. This is projected to have 16.6M people employed over the next decade. While this growth rate is in line with the projected growth of the population, it is worth getting ahead of the curve if you are considering a career change.
Your experience may already line up with some of Australia’s fastest-growing industries. With employers increasingly focused on skills over job titles, RPL qualifications can help you transition faster.
Here is a quick look at the top growth industries for 2026:
Roles in Leadership and Management
Let’s Get Digital
With a big move towards AI, industries need managers who can lead change and build high-performing teams. AI literacy is becoming a core competency across industries. High-demand roles in 2026 include:
- Team Leader / Supervisor
- Operations Manager
- Project Manager
- Digital Marketing Leader
- Media & Advertising roles
Source: Indeed
Qualifications to get you there
- BSB50420 Diploma of Leadership and Management
- BSB60420 Advanced Diploma of Leadership and Management
- BSB80320 Graduate Diploma of Strategic Leadership
Roles in Business Management
Small Businesses Matter
Australian SMEs and startups are experiencing a period of growth, marked by an increase in the number of businesses and positive revenue forecasts, especially in sectors like manufacturing and financial services. High-growth roles include:
- Business Administrator
- Office Manager
- Analyst
- Project Coordinator
Source: Sharecafe
Qualifications to get you there
- BSB50120 Diploma of Business
- BSB50120 Diploma of Business (Operations)
- BSB60120 Advanced Diploma of Business
Roles in Work, Health and Safety
Safety Culture Takes Centre Stage
With rising compliance standards, organisations require WHS leaders who can manage risks, support mental health programs, and maintain safe hybrid workplaces.
Australia’s WHS job market has rebounded strongly, with opportunities rising 22.3% in the 12 months to August 2025. This ends the declining trend seen in 2023, and reflects employers’ changing view that workplace health, safety and environment is no longer seen as a short-term reflex, but an entrenched and fundamental function.
High-demand WHS roles:
- WHS Advisor
- HSE Manager
- Risk & Compliance Officer
- Safety Coordinator
Source: The Next Step
Qualifications to get you there
- BSB51319 Diploma of Work Health and Safety
- BSB60619 Advanced Diploma of Work Health and Safety
- BSB50820 Diploma of Project Management
Why a Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) Appraisal Matters in 2026
An RPL appraisal helps you:
- Identify which nationally recognised qualifications your experience already matches (no study required)!
- Strengthen your eligibility for leadership, WHS, or business roles
- Unlock opportunities in growth industries
- Stand out in a skills-focused hiring market
- Turn real-world experience into career advancement
You can check your eligibility with one of our free RPL appraisals. Book here, or via any of the methods below.
