Canberra Businesses Positioned to Benefit from New Skills Initiatives

The ACT Government targets growing Canberra's workforce to 300,000 jobs by 2030 through five new Industry Action Plans covering building, renewables, experience, advanced technology, and caring sectors.

Funding supports training access

Over $24 million in matched ACT-Commonwealth funding is allocated for TAFE Centres of Excellence focusing on net zero economy transition, alongside $6.5 million for First Nations training initiatives under the National Skills Agreement. In 2024-25, the ACT Government provides $3.8 million for over 600 new Skilled Capital training places across 20+ courses including cyber security, individual support, and construction. More than 2,500 Canberrans accessed free Fee Free TAFE training in 2023, with priority focus on renewable energy, cyber security, care, construction, and hospitality sectors.

Shortages linked to living costs

Key workforce shortage drivers in Canberra include housing costs, general cost of living, perceptions of the city, and salary affordability for lower-skilled roles. Canberra's unemployment rate was 2.9% in 2024, significantly lower than the national average of 4%, with a workforce participation rate of 72%. The ACT generated a Gross Territory Product of approximately $25.28 billion in 2022/23, with Gross State Product per capita ranking third highest in Australia. Average weekly earnings in Canberra are the highest in Australia at $2,021, yet business investment fell by 9.5% in 2022-23, the only negative jurisdiction in the nation. The housing sector constrains growth, with dwelling approvals dropping substantially from 4,496 in 2023 to 2,183 in 2024, while the median house price reached $893,907 in December 2025. Construction is a major economic driver with $13.5 billion worth of projects planned or underway, supporting 15,800 local jobs, while the private sector generates 64% of all ACT jobs.

Local employers can access these programs through existing TAFE channels and the listed Industry Action Plans. Details on eligibility and course options appear on the ACT Government skills portal.