Workforce Plan Update 2025
Explore workforce challenges and opportunities in the Arts, Personal Services, Retail, Tourism and Hospitality sectors.
Progress in Action
Workforce planning is a strategic centrepiece of SaCSA’s work to explore, identify and respond to industry challenges and opportunities. These Progress in Action: Workforce Plan Update, 2025 reports build on the issues identified in the “Shaping Tomorrow” 2024 Workforce Planning Reports and outline our progress and next steps in developing practical and innovative solutions with industry for the Arts, Personal Services, Retail, Tourism and Hospitality sectors.
At its core, this update is shaped by the insights and lived experience of those working in the industry. By incorporating perspectives from employers, industry associations, training organisations, unions and government, the strategies outlined are practical, relevant and grounded in the operational realities of our unique sectors.
These updates reaffirm our ongoing commitment to responsive and adaptive workforce planning. As industry demands evolve, so too does our approach. By regularly reviewing and updating our Workforce Plans, we ensure our initiatives remain timely, evidence-informed, and aligned with national training and employment priorities
Main Focus Areas:
Sector Overview
Key Challenges and Drivers
Projects Underway
Future Projects and Consultation
Arts
From screen and gaming to music and dance, Australia’s creative industries tell the story of who we are. This sector thrives on innovation, celebrates individual expression, and plays a vital role in fostering community wellbeing. Creativity in Australia isn’t just a profession; it’s a fundamental part of our cultural fabric and national identity. Read our Workforce Plan Update, 2025 for the Arts sector.
Personal Services
Australia’s Personal Services sector is made up of a diverse workforce spanning a wide range of subsectors, including Hairdressing, Barbering, Beauty Services, Floristry and Funeral Services. These services play a vital role in the daily lives of Australians, supporting not just personal care, but wellbeing, self-expression, cultural connection and comfort through life’s most significant moments. Read our Workforce Plan Update, 2025 for the Personal Services sector.
Retail
Retail is one of the most dynamic and essential parts of Australia’s workforce. It spans a wide variety of businesses, from specialist retailers to national chains, and includes everything from brick-and-mortar stores to e-commerce platforms, quick service restaurants (QSRs), wholesalers, warehouses and franchises. This diverse and fast-moving sector plays a central role in everyday life, connecting products with people and supporting jobs in communities across the country. Read our Workforce Plan Update, 2025 for the Retail sector.
Tourism, Travel and Hospitality
Australia’s Tourism, Travel and Hospitality workforce is the backbone of both our domestic visitor economy and outbound international travel. It supports a wide range of interconnected industries that deliver goods and services to people on the move, whether they’re travelling for leisure, education or business. This vibrant sector plays a vital role in connecting people, places and experiences, while driving economic activity and enriching communities throughout Australia. Read our Workforce Plan Update, 2025 for the these sectors.