Current state of the Australian labour market

Jobs and Skills Australia has released the 2025 Occupation Shortage List detailing occupations experiencing shortages, where employers struggle to fill or face significant challenges in filling vacancies. This year’s data shows shortages have eased, with 29% of occupations in shortage, down from 36% in 2023, thanks to more qualified applicants, higher fill rates and softer demand.

Released alongside the OSL, the Occupation Shortage Drivers highlight why shortages persist, from too few qualified candidates, to skill gaps, to low pay and retention issues.