Looking to build a meaningful, secure career? Healthcare is a diverse, rapidly growing sector in Australia, with plenty of job opportunities for graduates and professionals alike.
According to the 2021 Census, 1.7 million people work in the Healthcare and Social Assistance industry in Australia. This number is projected to grow by 16% over the next five years, highlighting the increasing demand for skilled professionals.
If you’re entering the industry this year, here’s what you need to know about the future of healthcare in 2025.
How healthcare is changing in 2025
The healthcare sector is going through some major changes, largely thanks to artificial intelligence (AI). AI tools have the potential to help doctors diagnose illnesses more quickly and accurately, without replacing the valuable work of doctors themselves.
Wearable health devices are also getting smarter, allowing patients to track their heart rate and sleep patterns in real-time. Telehealth services are making it easier to access care for those living in remote areas or unable to leave their homes.
Personalised medicine is improving, too. Doctors can design treatments and create medicines by looking at patients’ unique genetics.
Lastly, virtual reality (VR) is being used to help patients with pain management and rehabilitation.
The future of jobs in healthcare
Looking for a job in healthcare? The following roles are in demand in Australia, helping you to get started on the path to a stable career.
Dentist or dental therapist
Dentists treat, repair and help prevent teeth problems and gum diseases. On the Australian Government’s Occupation Shortage List for 2025, dentists and dental therapists are in high demand, especially in rural areas.
Expected annual salary: $180,000 – $200,000
Aged care worker
Australia’s ageing population is driving demand for aged care professionals who care for and assist older adults, both at home and in residential care. This sector is expected to grow steadily over the coming years.
Expected annual salary: $65,000 – $70,000
Nurse
Nurses provide medical and nursing care in various settings, often working as part of a team alongside doctors, therapists and social workers. There is predicted to be a shortage of nurses in multiple sectors over the next 10 years.
Expected annual salary: $75,000 – $95,000
Midwife
Midwives specialise in assisting women during pregnancy, childbirth and postpartum care, both in the hospital and during home births. A growing population in Australia is increasing the need for midwives.
Expected annual salary: $95,000 – $115,000
Clinical psychologist
Clinical psychologists diagnose and treat mental health conditions through various forms of therapy. They often work in private practices, hospitals or mental health clinics.
Expected annual salary: $110,000 – $120,000
Occupational therapist
Occupational therapists help people with physical, mental or developmental disabilities to develop or regain everyday skills for living and working. They work in various settings including hospitals, schools and rehabilitation centres.
Expected annual salary: $85,000 – $100,000
How to get a job in healthcare in 2025
To begin a healthcare career, it’s important to understand the qualifications, skills and pathways needed for each role. Here’s how you can break into the industry:
Identify in-demand careers
Take a look at Australia’s Occupation Shortage List and Skilled Occupation List to find roles with strong employment prospects.
Gain the right qualifications
Depending on the role, you may need a certificate, diploma or degree. For example, aged care workers often complete a Certificate III in Individual Support, while clinical psychologists need a postgraduate degree.
It’s important to choose the right course for you and your career goals. For example, Flinders University, ranked #36 in the world for nursing, offers a range of healthcare programs, including degrees in medicine, nursing, physiotherapy, nutrition, and public health. If you don’t meet entry requirements, Flinders University Academy offers an 8- or 12-month Diploma in Health program, providing direct entry into a range of Flinders health bachelor’s degrees.
Chat to your chosen institution to see what options are available for you.
Look at your visa options
If you’re interested in working in Australia’s healthcare industry, there are specific visas available for both professionals and graduates. One option is the Skills in Demand visa, which allows healthcare professionals in certain roles to work in Australia for up to four years.
There’s an exciting future ahead for you in Australian healthcare. Good luck with your job hunt!
