In the past few years, the welding industry in Australia has undergone a remarkable transformation. Gone are the days of uncertainty and decline; the sector is now experiencing a robust period of growth and development that signals a bright future for professionals in the field. Drawing insights from the Australian government’s ‘Job Outlook’ initiative, we delve into how the industry has evolved since 2020, shedding light on its promising path in 2024.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

A Snapshot of Growth and Prosperity within the Welding Industry

• As of 2024, the welding industry has seen a notable increase in employment, salary, and gender diversity. The average weekly pay for Structural Steel and Welding trade workers has seen a significant rise that underscores the industry’s economic health and growing recognition of skilled labour. Employment numbers have surged, reflecting the industry’s expanding capacity to accommodate a growing workforce.

The Welding Industry Dynamics: From Decline to Dominance

• The transformation from a state of decline to moderate and then substantial growth is a testament to the industry’s resilience and adaptability. This positive shift is mirrored in the employment size, which has not only reached but surpassed the estimated figures, with a thriving community of welders contributing to the nation’s industrial and manufacturing sectors. Furthermore, improving unemployment rates from above to below the national average marks a significant milestone in the industry’s journey towards stability and success.

Bridging the Gender Gap in Welding and Boilermaking

• While the welding trades have traditionally been male-dominated, the past four years have witnessed a steady increase in female participation, from 1% in 2020 to a more inclusive figure in 2024. This shift, although gradual, is a positive indicator of the industry’s efforts to embrace diversity and promote gender inclusivity.

The Young, the Skilled, and the Full-Time

• The welding profession continues to attract a younger demographic, with the average age of workers remaining lower than the overall workforce average. This youthful energy, coupled with high percentage of full-time employment and longer working hours, underscores the dedication and work ethic prevalent among welding professionals. It also hints at the sector’s ability to offer stable, long-term employment opportunities.

 

 

Looking Ahead: Safety, Wellbeing, and Technological Advancements in the Welding World

• The emphasis on safety and wellbeing, highlighted by the 2020 Welding Fume and Respiratory Protection Survey, has set the stage for ongoing improvements in workplace standards. In 2024, the industry prioritises health and safety and embraces technological advancements, leading to more efficient, safer, and higher-quality welding practices.

A Future Welded in Optimism

The welding industry in Australia stands on the brink of a new era of growth and opportunity. With a solid foundation of skilled labour, improved employment conditions, and a commitment to safety and technological innovation, the future looks bright for welders and fabricators nationwide. As we move forward, the industry’s role in driving economic recovery and supporting the nation’s infrastructure projects remains pivotal, cementing its importance in Australia’s industrial landscape.

Once unforeseen, the resurgence of the welding trades is now a reality, offering a promising career path for existing and aspiring professionals alike. With the industry’s trajectory firmly pointed upwards, the welding profession in Australia is not just surviving; it’s thriving.

 

 

Read more about boilermaker jobs in demand here or read other industry related articles by TRS Resourcing here.