Australia’s care economy is booming. Once considered a niche sector, it now makes up around 15 per cent of the nation’s entire economy. This is up from 10 per cent in the early 2010s. Between 2023 and 2024 alone, jobs in healthcare and education grew by an impressive 44 per cent. Registered nursing has become the country’s second most common occupation, reflecting a major shift in Australia’s employment landscape. In the past six years, the number of registered nurses has increased by 23 per cent to 366,000.
Behind these figures lies a powerful story of change. As Australia’s population ages and demand for disability and aged-care services grows, the care economy has become one of the country’s most important and resilient industries. Not only does the sector provides stable employment. It also plays a crucial role in supporting communities and improving quality of life nationwide.
For many Australians, this growing industry represents an opportunity to build a meaningful and secure career. From hospitals and aged-care homes to disability services and home support programs, opportunities within the care sector have never been stronger. This makes now the perfect time to consider a career in this essential and rewarding field.
So what’s behind the growth of the care economy, and how can we attract more people to the industry?
What’s behind the growth of the care economy
According to demographer Bernard Salt, Australia is on the precipice of an extended care era as baby boomers enter their 80s and 90s. In the next 40 years, the number of Australians aged over 65 will double. Meanwhile, the number of Australians aged over 85 will triple. This demographic shift will not only reshape the workforce but also influence the types of services Australians need.
The rapid growth of the NDIS has also led to an increased demand for nursing and allied health skills. Between 2016 and 2022, the number of people working in the NDIS increased from 248,000 to 534,000.
“The impact of Covid and the ageing of baby boomers, plus the rollout of the NDIS, have all been drivers of demand for nursing skills. A rising workforce of registered nurses translates into greater demand for hospitals and healthcare facilities,” Mr Salt told the Australian.
How to attract more people to the industry
Experts say that increased wages are one way to encourage more people to pursue a career in the care industry. Already, progress has been made in this area. Between 2010 and 2024, hourly wage rates in the care economy increased by 50 per cent. In many Australian states nurses have received a pay rise. Additionally, the federal government has also announced a number of pay increases for aged care workers. This has had a positive impact, leading to an increase in the number of people taking up roles in the care sector.
However, boosting workforce numbers also requires better training pathways, career development opportunities and recognition of the valuable role care professionals play in society. Encouraging school leavers and mid-career workers to see care as a respected, long-term profession will be key to meeting future demand.
With the care sector expanding so rapidly, there has never been a better time to pursue opportunities in nursing, aged care services or disability support. Are you entering the workforce for the first time or looking to transition into a more rewarding profession? Having a strong, well-crafted application can make all the difference.
Are you looking for a new career? Melbourne Resume Writers can help. We are pleased to offer a range of professional services including resume writing and selection criteria writing to help you stand out in this growing field.
Article References
Grattan, M (20 August 2023) ‘‘Care’ economy to balloon in an Australia of 40.5 million: Intergenerational Report‘, The Conversation, accessed 16 October 2025.
Nivison, J (11 October 2025) ‘Aged care workers find reward in booming industry‘, The Australian, accessed 16 October 2025.
Read, M (10 October 2025) ‘NDIS is sucking in workers from more efficient jobs‘, Financial Review, accessed 16 October 2025.