South Australia’s energy and resources sector experienced a record number of job advertisements in the last quarter, indicating a thriving business environment.
The SA Mining and Energy Hiring Intentions Report indicates that 918 job advertisements were submitted for resources and energy sector roles between October and December.
“These record results are more evidence that the energy and mining sectors are key drivers of our state’s economy, boosting jobs and building prosperity for all South Australians,” Minister Tom Koutsantonis said.
Minister Koutsantonis stated that SA’s mining activity is increasing, with increased investment in energy projects and a rise in job opportunities.
“These figures clearly demonstrate that South Australia’s resources are highly sought-after globally as they continue to play a critical role in decarbonising our economy and supporting the world’s transition to clean energy,” the Minister added.
Since 2013, the Resources and Energy Skills Alliance (RESA) has reported the highest number of jobs advertised in this period.
SA’s mining and energy jobs boom is primarily benefited by regional areas, with approximately 40% of advertised jobs located in these areas.
According to the SA Government, the rising demand for skills is attributed to the increasing activity in mining and investments in energy projects.
Minister Koutsantonis noted that the figures clearly show South Australia’s resources are globally sought-after due to their crucial role in decarbonising the economy and supporting the transition to clean energy.
“It is particularly pleasing that well over a third of these jobs are located in our state’s regions. These sectors are vital to the prosperity of our regional communities and to the state’s economic transformation,” the Minister said.
“Our state is delivering the raw materials and value-added products needed to drive the energy transition globally, including copper, steel and hydrogen. This jobs boom is creating opportunities for people with varieties of skills – whether you’re operating heavy equipment or honing a complex spreadsheet, there’s a job for you in South Australia’s resources sector.”
RESA Chief Executive Officer Jodie Badcock reported that mining and energy vacancy activity has consistently increased in the past two years, with demand in each quarter equalling or exceeding the previous financial year.
“With 235 companies advertising in the sector in Q2 FY23-24, in roles that support mineral resources and infrastructure projects, industry demand is diverse both by type of employment and geographical location,” Badcock said.
“This highlights the importance of a collaborative approach to the development of workforce solutions aligned to industry priorities providing pathways to rewarding employment opportunities for South Australians,” she added.
The top three categories of jobs advertised were Trades and Operators (54%), Professionals (29%), and Supervisors/Managers (9%) across various professions.
Diesel mechanics, mechanical fitters, Health, Safety, and Environment advisors, mining engineers, and project managers are all in high demand.
