TAFE NSW deputy regional general manager Adam Bennett said the research revealed the fastest growth occupations were predicted to be project builder, early childhood teacher, caretaker, property manager and supply and distribution manager.

Mr Bennett said the Central West, Far West and Orana regions had the highest skill shortage rates in NSW driving up employment opportunities.

“Add to this our ageing population and there’s a number of large upcoming investments in the region, and these factors all open the doors to many exciting potential employment opportunities,” Mr Bennett said.

“In the Central West we have a very diverse economy, with strong activity in technology and business, supply chain and eCommerce, health, wellbeing and community services and agriculture.

“With the extension and construction of new transport corridors, and the construction and development of a number of new and improved health care facilities, this will continue to generate increased demand for skilled workers.”

TAFE forecasts employment to grow by more than 1150 jobs from 2018-2021.

Health, wellbeing and community services is forecast to have the biggest employment increase over the 2018-2021 period with around 1670 additional workers (or 4.0% increase).

The top five industries in the Central West by employment size are technology and business services; supply chain and eCommerce; health, wellbeing and community services; infrastructure, energy and construction; and Agribusiness.

Mr Bennett added that TAFE has extensive training in all industries predicted for growth, including construction, health, early childhood care, administration, hospitality, retail, finance and property management - just to name a few.

For more information visit www.tafensw.edu.au or phone 131 601.