Transport and Logistics: Careers on the Move

If you’re looking for a career that’s always moving, both literally and figuratively, transport and logistics could be the path for you. With strong demand, competitive salaries, and a wide variety of roles, this industry offers plenty of ways to get your career into gear.

Australia’s transport and logistics sector—also known as the supply chain industry—is vital to our economy. It connects everything from food delivery and freight shipping to e-commerce, public transport, and warehouse management. Without it, nothing moves.

Why Transport and Logistics Is a Smart Career Choice

In 2024, the Australian transport, postal and warehousing sector employs more than 690,000 workers—about 5% of the national workforce. And with growing demand driven by e-commerce, infrastructure investment, and international trade, there are job opportunities across the board.

According to the Australian Industry and Skills Committee, roles in transport and logistics are expected to grow steadily over the next five years, especially in warehousing, road freight, aviation support, and last-mile delivery. The rise in online shopping and the complexity of global supply chains make skilled logistics professionals more valuable than ever.

Who’s Hiring—and for What Roles?

The modern supply chain is a vast network of interconnected roles. While there’s always demand for traditional roles like:

• Truck drivers and delivery drivers
• Forklift operators and storepersons
• Bus and train drivers

—there’s also increasing opportunity in professional and technical areas such as:

• Transport planning and logistics coordination
• Supply chain analysis
• Freight forwarding and customs broking
• E-commerce fulfilment
• Operations and warehouse management

Michael Thirgood, a state manager at a major logistics firm, puts it simply: “You can start in a yard washing trucks or operating a forklift, and work your way up to managing a business with hundreds of vehicles.”

Skills Shortage Means Opportunity

The industry faces a skills gap—especially for heavy vehicle drivers, logistics technicians, and planners. Australia’s Jobs and Skills Australia initiative has recognised transport and logistics as a priority sector for training and workforce development.

With an ageing workforce and fewer young people entering the industry, now’s the time to get in. Many companies are investing in upskilling and entry-level training programs to future-proof their operations and attract new talent.

Explore nationally recognised training such as:

• Certificate III in Logistics
• Certificate IV in Logistics
• Courses in supply chain management

These qualifications can open the door to supervisor and manager roles in warehouses, distribution centres, and freight operations.

Breaking Stereotypes: A More Inclusive Industry

The transport and logistics sector has traditionally been male-dominated, but that’s changing. The industry is actively encouraging gender diversity and creating flexible, family-friendly roles. According to the Workplace Gender Equality Agency, women now make up around 23% of the workforce in transport, postal and warehousing—and the number is growing each year.

Organisations are also adapting roles to better suit workers from all walks of life, including career changers, parents returning to work, and culturally diverse communities. With training pathways and entry-level roles available across the country, it’s an accessible career option with long-term growth potential.

How Much Can You Earn?

According to Seek, the average salary in transport and logistics is around $80,000 per year, with entry-level roles starting closer to $55,000. Senior logistics managers and supply chain professionals can earn well above $150,000, especially in larger operations or with international trade responsibilities.

Salaries vary depending on the sub-sector, but the industry offers excellent scope for advancement and skill-based pay increases.

Your Next Step: Where to Start

Whether you’re just out of school, switching careers, or looking to move from hands-on roles to strategic ones, the transport and logistics industry offers a variety of pathways. Explore your training options through:

• Logistics and Supply Chain courses
• Business and Operations Management
• Transport sector qualifications

These courses can help you gain the skills, accreditation and confidence to succeed in one of Australia’s most essential—and evolving—industries.