Geelong has seen strong economic growth in recent years, with more businesses opening up and employment opportunities steadily increasing. This steady job growth benefits the local population and also makes the region attractive for new talent looking to relocate or start a career here.
Once largely a manufacturing-based economy, Geelong is now shifting toward a service-based economy. There’s growing investment in infrastructure, healthcare, education and construction projects, while initiatives like the Skilling the Bay program bring together education, community and industry to create a skilled, job-ready workforce.
If you’re looking to contribute to Geelong’s thriving economy, now is the perfect time. Here are the top sectors to focus on to stay employable and competitive in the region.
Manufacturing
Geelong has a long history in manufacturing, and it continues to lead the way with a renewed focus on advanced manufacturing and the green economy. A master’s of engineering management, for example, equips you with problem-solving skills to tackle engineering challenges while integrating sustainable practices, keeping you future-ready.
The shift toward renewable energy is clear. Plans for a wind farm hub at Geelong Port aim to support Victoria’s growing offshore wind industry, with proposals for a vertical supply chain that includes producing carbon fibre-based wind tower blades. These projects demand specialised trade skills in advanced materials, robotics, 3D printing and heavy fabrication, skills you can develop at TAFE and other institutions across Australia.
Traditional manufacturing still plays a vital role too, including food and beverage processing, chemicals and refining, metals and transport equipment. These industries employ a wide range of skillsets, from fabricators and chemical engineers to metallurgists and supply chain managers, making manufacturing a diverse and dynamic career option in Geelong.
Health Care and Social Assistance
Healthcare is a major driver of Greater Geelong’s growing economy. With the region’s rising population – thanks to affordability, job opportunities and increased investment – demand for healthcare services is set to surge. The Victorian Government has invested in the expansion of the Barwon Women’s and Children’s Hospital, and there are plans to extend University Hospital Geelong, further strengthening the region’s medical infrastructure. A medical degree opens doors to clinical, nursing or allied health roles across public and private hospitals, aged-care services and health research. There’s also a strong need for paramedics and pharmacy technicians.
As healthcare facilities grow, so does the demand for administrators, medical officers, medical writers and public health professionals, especially as the focus shifts toward disease prevention and population wellness to maintain a healthy population. Social assistance roles, including support and community care workers, are also expanding to provide care for older community members and people with dementia or disabilities. Certificate courses in support services offer an entry point into this vital sector. With Geelong as a regional hub for healthcare, this industry is poised to employ the largest number of new workers in the region.
Construction
Geelong is buzzing with new infrastructure projects, including the Geelong Line rail upgrades, waterfront redevelopment and the Nyaal Banyul Geelong Convention and Event Centre. These initiatives are part of the Geelong City Deal, a $676 million investment from the federal and state governments and the City of Greater Geelong, with more projects planned to come. The goal is to revitalise the city and boost the Great Ocean Road visitor economy.
Trade roles like carpenters, plumbers, electricians, bricklayers and welders are in high demand, alongside specialised positions like project managers, architects, HSE officers and civil engineers. With population growth driving the need for housing, retail and transport infrastructure, there’s a strong focus on innovation and sustainability across all new construction projects.
Retail Trade
Geelong offers a strong mix of supermarket-based retail centres to meet the community’s everyday needs, alongside shopping complexes catering to branded and luxury products. Retail remains one of the top sectors driving employment in Greater Geelong. Certificate courses in retail services and management, combined with customer service skills, provide the foundation for roles such as sales associates, visual merchandisers and store managers.
Slow and cultural retail options are also growing, shaping the future of Geelong’s shopping scene and creating new activity centres. Projects like the Central Geelong Market Square redevelopment aim to boost visitor numbers, while the Northern and Western Geelong Growth Areas will need new retail centres to ensure communities have convenient, walkable access to services.
Regularly organised events in Geelong further drive consumer traffic, supporting local businesses, energising shopping centres and encouraging regional spending, helping the retail sector continue to expand and contribute to the local economy.
Information and Communication Technology (ICT)
As Geelong’s economy continues to diversify, the demand for skilled workers in Information and Communication Technology (ICT) is growing rapidly. Businesses across all sectors, from manufacturing and healthcare to construction and retail, rely on technology for day-to-day operations, data management and innovation. Careers in ICT include software development, cybersecurity, network administration, data analytics and IT support, all of which are critical to maintaining efficient, secure, and modern business systems.
Upskilling in ICT can be achieved through university degrees, vocational courses and short-term certifications, with opportunities to specialise in areas like cloud computing, artificial intelligence or cybersecurity. Digital literacy and problem-solving skills are in high demand, making these roles well-paid but also highly adaptable to future industry changes.
ICT skills also support other industries in Geelong. For example, in healthcare, digital systems streamline patient care and health data management, while in construction, software for design, project management and logistics improves efficiency and accuracy. Retail and service businesses benefit from e-commerce platforms, digital marketing, and customer analytics.
Be a Part of Geelong’s Success
Home-grown talent is set to drive Geelong’s economy forward, balancing economic growth, community development and long-term business success. By investing in and engaging local talent, businesses can foster creativity, innovation and social responsibility while building a strong talent pipeline for future needs.
With its diverse industries, ongoing infrastructure projects and focus on sustainability, Geelong is well-positioned for continued growth. Opportunities abound across manufacturing, healthcare, construction, retail and technology, making it an ideal place for skilled professionals to launch or advance their careers with promising long-term opportunities while contributing to a thriving, resilient regional economy.
