According to the Australian Government’s Department of Employment, Western Australia is the fourth largest employing state; employing approximately 1,334,600 Australians.
The Australian Jobs Report is an annual publication that reflects the changes in the Australian Labour Market; providing some great information around industries, regions and career paths that are booming in Australia.
If you are interested in discovering which industries in Western Australia are in the top five across the state in 2018, read on.
Type of Workforce
Workforce Qualification
As suggested by the data collected, Perth is the top city that employs the most Western Australians.
Over the past five years, WA has had the weakest employment growth when compared to any other state or territory across the nation. This is a result of the fall of employment in Mining, which is down by 26.9%, or 22,600 jobs, and Manufacturing, which is down by 24.7% or 22,600 jobs.
Despite this notable loss, WA still maintains 41% of Mining jobs within Australia, and it accounts for 7% of the state’s employment.
The Accommodation and Food Services industry had contributed the largest amount of new jobs in the last five years, then Health Care and Social Assistance, followed by Education and Training.
Approximately 66% of workers in the WA have a post-school qualification. It was also found that across this data, those who do have a post-school qualification are more likely to hold a certificate III or higher Vocational Education and Training (VET) qualification than a bachelor degree or higher (32% compared with 28%).
Largest Employing Industries in WA
In Western Australia, the top five employing industries are:
Health Care and Social Assistance is the largest employing industry in Western Australia with 163,200.
WA Industry Breakdown
Circumstances surrounding youth employment in Western Australia have weakened over the past year, with youth employment decreasing by 10,100 (or 5%).
WA’s youth unemployment rate has increased by 1.5% in January 2018, making it the highest rate since August 2004.
Youth Employment Share
As suggested by the Australian Jobs Report 2018, the short-term outlook for the Western Australian economy is “for some modest improvement.”
There is an expected 1.5% employment growth in 2018-19, while the unemployment rate is forecast to average 5.75% during this timeframe.
From these statistics, it is more important than ever that workers gain qualifications in areas that surround the five largest industries, to guarantee employment in the upcoming years.
If the above careers interest you, explore our large range of courses in these booming industry areas below.
Browse Results
Diploma of Nursing (SA and WA Only) HLT54121
Build a meaningful career that makes a difference with the HLT54121 Diploma of Nursing. This nationally recognised qualification provides the essential skills, knowledge, and practical training needed to become a qualified Enrolled Nurse in Australia....




Certificate IV in Building and Construction (Building) (VIC Only) CPC40120
If you are an aspiring or working tradesperson, here is your foundation for success. This is your first step towards starting your own building business and preparing for the builders registration. We understand that you could be a busy tradie by day,...


Diploma of Building and Construction (Building) (VIC Only) CPC50220
Prepare for registration as a Builder with the Diploma of Building and Construction (Building) (CPC50210) Gain the skills & knowledge to run your own business Study when it suits you – online & on campus options available...


Certificate IV in Plumbing and Services (VIC ONLY) CPC40920
This course covers common skills for the plumbing industry as well as specialist streams relevant to gasfitting, drainage, sewerage, roof drainage and more....


Diploma of Counselling CHC51015
There is a growing need for people who can offer support services to adults and teenagers who may need support and guidance. If you have the desire to help people lead a happier life to reach their full potential, a career as a professional Counsellor...

