Pre-school teaching, construction and fitness are among the occupations projected to see a surge in employment numbers over the next three years.

The data, compiled by TAFE NSW, reveals the Illawarra’s workforce is expected to grow by about 2.4 per cent (7366 positions) by 2021, with unemployment projected to dip from 6.2 per cent to 5.9 per cent.

Unemployment is forecast to drop from 18.7 per cent to 17.2 per cent for 15-19 year olds; and 10.5 per cent to 9.7 per cent for 20-24 year olds. 

The occupations forecast to have the greatest employment growth are aged or disabled carer, childcare worker, project builder, early childhood teacher, chef, fitness instructor and management consultant. 

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The report found that an ageing population and a skills shortage in key industries is driving much of the projected employment growth. 

TAFE NSW regional general manager Kerry Penton said the report highlighted the critical role TAFE NSW would play in addressing the skills gap.

“We must ensure the workforce is trained to meet the future needs of industry if we want to capitalise on the many exciting employment opportunities ahead,” Ms Penton said. 

“The Illawarra has a very diverse economy, with strong activity in education, technology and business, health, wellbeing and community services.

“With the $500 million Illawarra Health and Wellbeing Project in the pipeline, and the region’s reputation as a growth centre of digital skills and tech jobs, there will continue to be increased demand for skilled workers.”

According to the report, the emerging “green economy” is also expected to be a jobs driver, with the Green Jobs Illawarra initiative set to be reinstated.