The 2021-2022 Health Workforce Skills and Development Report provides an overview of trends in the health industry through analysis of industry intelligence and workforce and training data. Through identifying priority areas for workforce skills and development, this report is intended to be used by government and industry as a resource to inform workforce development and skills investment in the health industry. This report was prepared by CheckUP and was informed by industry consultations undertaken through the ISA for Health program. During the production of this report, the health industry workforce was facing significant impacts as a direct result of the COVID-19 pandemic. This is highlighted in the relevant areas of this report.

This report articulates the central position of the health industry in contributing to the state’s economic growth and provides evidence of its resilience during times of labour market downturns, and fiscal impacts and constraints.

While the industry continues to be a powerhouse for employment and economic growth it is still faced with many challenges. Some of the workforce challenges are shared by other industries such as an ageing workforce, increased competition for labour sources, the need for improved use of skills of the existing workforce, and difficulties in attracting and retaining skilled staff. However, many of the challenges faced by health are unique to the industry itself and can be attributed to the growing demand for services, the changing nature of service model delivery and challenges faced by our rural and remote communities.

The health industry is taking steps to enhance its workforce planning and development capacity. Collaboration is required to position the industry to using the significant social and economic contribution it makes to the state’s prosperity and the real difference it can make to people’s lives and wellbeing.