A newly released survey shows skills shortages are endangering Australia’s economic expansion.
According to the survey, conducted by the Australian Industry (Ai) Group and Deloitte, 34.7% of businesses in Australia say there is a high risk that skills shortages will have an adverse effect on operations this year.
“Of particular concern is that shortages are intensifying in occupations associated with manufacturing, construction and engineering, which are pivotal to the Australian economy. These occupations are based on skills which have a long development lead time, are in high use across the economy and whose absence puts industry at high risk,” warns Heather Ridout, Ai Group chief executive.
The survey shows that among the occupation in which there are vacancies employers have trouble filling are metal fitters and machinists; engineering professionals; metal casting, forging and finishing tradespersons; structural steel and welding trades workers; as well as business administration managers.
