Engineering skills remain in high demand across all disciplines. Shortages persist, according to the 2024 Infrastructure Australia Market Capacity Report, despite ongoing efforts to grow the local talent pipeline.
Around 25,000 qualified engineers will retire by 2026, representing two-thirds of Australian-born engineering graduates. But waiting for more local graduates isn’t the answer.
An engineering degree takes around 5.5 years to complete, with at least another five years of professional experience required to meet the requirements of independent practice. This means a student in Year 12 in 2025 won’t join the engineering workforce as an independent engineer until around 2035.
How can businesses bridge the skills gap and build a resilient engineering workforce?
Consult Australia and Engineers Australia have developed a new national guide to help businesses access the untapped potential of overseas-qualified engineers.
“The guide steps through the business process for hiring overseas-qualified engineers” says Kristine Banks, Consult Australia’s National Policy Manager.
The guide outlines key steps for businesses of all sizes, from understanding qualification frameworks to navigating visa requirements. It equips firms with information as they recruit, integrate and retain international talent.
“The Business Guide outlines case studies, myth-busters and practical insights to help companies evaluate the opportunities and make informed hiring decisions,” Kristine adds.
"Infrastructure Australia reports that engineers face the most acute skills shortage of any occupation. Addressing this challenge requires multiple solutions – and this guide offers a practical pathway to accessing global talent.”
Consult Australia and Engineers Australia developed the Business Guide as part of the ‘Leading Through Collaboration’ partnership agreement forged in 2024. Download the Business Guide.