- Date:
- 19 Aug 2026
1 Industry snapshot
Manufacturing skills and workforce snapshot.
2 Introduction
About the manufacturing industry.
3 Workforce profile
The manufacturing industry is Victoria’s sixth‑largest employing industry, with a predominantly male and culturally diverse workforce.
4 Top employing occupations
Production managers is the top employing occupation in the industry, with a mostly male, full-time employed, VET qualified workforce.
5 Workforce projections
By 2028, 13,200 new workers are expected to enter the manufacturing industry.
6 Top growing occupations
Top growing jobs in the industry vary in skill level requirements, with higher skilled jobs commanding higher salaries and stronger retention rates.
7 Skills needs
Skills in demand within the industry are diverse, with in-demand industry-specific skills ranging from business solutions to heavy equipment operation.
8 Training activity
Popular courses and study areas linked to this industry include the Certificate III in Engineering - Fabrication Trade (VET) and Business Management (HE).
9 Appendix 1: Data notes
9 Appendix 1: Data notes.
9 Appendix 2: Data sources
9 Appendix 2: Data sources.
Updated