Australia’s Population Hits 27 Million, But New Australians Still Face Key Challenges

In September 2024, Australia reached a mammoth population milestone, with 27 million people now calling the country home.

The nation’s population growth is about more than a booming birth rate. In fact, approximately 83% of the country’s population growth is thanks to net overseas migration. Each year, more people are choosing Australia as a place to settle down and explore the world of work.

Moving to Australia isn’t easy. Immigrants must adapt to a new culture, and in some cases, learn a new language. Importantly, new arrivals are often subject to a range of challenges when it comes to securing their place in the workforce.

So what can we do to improve outcomes for the newest influx of Australian employees, and how can this make a positive impact on Aussie industry at large?

Training Deficits and Visa Restrictions

The unfortunate reality is that many overseas qualifications don’t transfer to Australian industries and economies. This can mean that even highly qualified people find themselves out of work and out of opportunities when they reach our shores.

Without access to the qualifications they need, many find it difficult to secure stable, well-paying work in Australia. This impacts their ability to settle into a new life and can make it difficult to meet the minimum visa requirements needed to stay in Australia long-term.

How RTO Fast-Track Programs Can Help

Recent analysis shows that 36% of assessed occupations are displaying a national skills shortage in Australia. What does this mean? We need immigrant workers to help improve the local labour market and fill skills gaps in critical industries.

Working with a Registered Training Organisation in Australia, immigrants can explore fast-track programs that help them upskill faster and more effectively. This provides new arrivals with the confidence and skills they need to pursue employment opportunities.

A quality RTO can also provide Recognition of Prior Learning. RPL enables immigrants to make the most of existing qualifications and skillsets, speeding up their studies and getting them into the workforce sooner.