High Demand for Education and Childcare Professionals

Whether you’re just starting out or looking for a more meaningful career, teaching and childcare offer stable, rewarding pathways—and they’re more in demand than ever. With persistent skills shortages in early childhood education, secondary teaching, and special education, qualified professionals are in high demand across Australia.

If you’re passionate about working with children and shaping future generations, now is an ideal time to explore a career in education.

Why Education and Childcare Are Growing Industries

According to Jobs and Skills Australia, education and training is one of the top five employment sectors projected to grow through 2033. This growth is driven by:

• Population growth and higher enrolment rates in early learning and schools
• Government investment in early childhood education and school reform
• Teacher shortages in specific subjects and regional areas

The demand spans across preschool, primary, and secondary settings—as well as in special needs and language education. If you’re considering a career shift, teaching offers security, purpose, and the opportunity to make a lasting impact.

1. Early Childhood Educators Are in High Demand

Australia continues to face a national shortage of qualified early childhood educators and teachers. The introduction of universal preschool programs and government reforms—including the Cheaper Child Care reforms—has led to an increase in enrolments, and with it, an urgent need for more staff.

Child-to-educator ratios and mandatory qualification requirements—like a minimum Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care—mean more skilled professionals are needed across daycare, preschool, and long daycare centres.

If you’re nurturing, patient, and love helping children learn through play, now is the time to explore childcare courses and step into a rewarding role that makes a difference every day.

2. Secondary School Teachers Needed—Especially in STEM and Languages

Secondary schools across Australia are experiencing teacher shortages, particularly in high-demand subjects like mathematics, science, and Languages Other Than English (LOTE).

If you have a background in these areas, you may be eligible to retrain as a teacher through a postgraduate qualification such as a Master of Teaching. Many universities offer streamlined pathways for career changers with relevant degrees.

Teachers who specialise in STEM subjects or LOTE are especially sought after in rural and remote areas, where shortages are even more severe. This opens up job flexibility and often qualifies you for additional financial incentives or relocation assistance.

3. Special Needs Teachers: High Impact, High Reward

Supporting students with disabilities or additional needs is one of the most rewarding—and urgently needed—roles in education. Special needs teachers create tailored programs that help students thrive academically and socially.

There is a critical shortage of special education teachers nationwide, particularly in public schools and regional communities. Training in inclusive education or completing a specialisation in special needs as part of your teaching degree can fast-track your career while contributing to a more equitable education system.

Explore our teaching courses to learn more about special education pathways.

How to Get Started in Teaching or Childcare

For New Entrants:

• Early Childhood: Start with a Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care or progress to a Diploma for leadership roles.
• Teaching: Study a Bachelor of Education (Early Childhood, Primary, or Secondary).

For Career Changers:

• If you already have a degree, a Master of Teaching allows you to qualify as a teacher in just two years.
• Specialise in in-demand areas like maths, science, or inclusive education for faster placement and broader career options.

Not Ready for a Full Degree?

You can start your journey with a Certificate IV or Diploma in Education Support to become a classroom assistant or learning support officer—roles that are also in demand across the country.

Ready to Make a Difference?

Whether you want to help toddlers thrive, inspire high school students, or support learners with additional needs, education offers meaningful work, career stability and job flexibility. Explore the full range of teaching and childcare courses to take the next step in your career journey.