Skill Shortages in the Trades: A Report Card

Abstract

Shortages in the trades are acute and widespread. In 2005 the Department of Labour published an overview of skill shortages in the trade occupations and identified the major reasons for those shortages. This paper revisits some of the historical causes of shortages in the trades. While the legacy of these factors is still being felt in today's labour market, there have been significant improvements in most areas. Qualification achievements and enrolments have been lifted significantly; migration is making a net positive contribution to supply, and wages have risen sharply. These developments are contributing to growth in supply of tradespersons, which coupled with the expected slowing of growth in demand, means the outlook for shortages is much improved.