Australia’s Declining Industries in 2025 — And What It Means for Tradies

Australia is a country built by skilled hands,  from the carpenters shaping new homes to the electricians wiring smart cities. But as we step into 2025, the Australian economy is changing fast. Some industries that once drove massive employment are now slowing down, reshaped by automation, sustainability policies, and global trade shifts.

This shift is transforming how people work and where opportunities lie. For tradies, the changes aren’t just numbers on a report; they affect real jobs, real families, and the future of skilled work. Understanding these shifts is the first step to staying ahead.

In this blog, we’ll look at which industries are declining, how the Australian workforce trends 2025 are influencing trade work, and what tradies can do to adapt, grow, and sustain in this new environment. Let’s dive deeper into it. 

Why Some Australian Industries Are Struggling?

Several Australian industries are struggling to stay strong in 2025. Costs are rising, consumer habits are changing, and new technology is reshaping how work gets done. Let’s look at the key reasons behind this slowdown and how it’s changing the country’s job scene.

1. Global and Local Factors at Play

Over the past few years, international economic changes have affected Australia’s job market. Shifts in trade, sustainability targets, and global competition have reduced demand for older production systems. Domestically, rising costs and new policies around energy and environment are also changing business priorities.

The result? Traditional sectors like coal, printing, and local manufacturing are facing pressure to modernize or risk decline.

2. Technology and Changing Consumer Habits

Technology is another factor. Automation, AI, and robotics are replacing repetitive manual tasks. People are shopping online, working remotely, and consuming digital media instead of printed forms.

This shift means some services that depended on physical systems are becoming less relevant. But new skills and digital literacy are opening doors for tradies ready to upskill.

Australia’s Declining Industries in 2025: A Sector-by-Sector Overview

While Australia’s economy remains strong overall, several industries are slowing. Knowing which ones are affected helps tradies identify where their work may change next.

1. Manufacturing and Traditional Retail

Manufacturing used to employ millions, but automation and global outsourcing have changed that. Many factories now operate with fewer workers, and cheaper overseas production has cut into local demand.

Similarly, traditional retail has been hit by online shopping. As consumers buy from websites instead of physical stores, fewer shop fit-outs, signage works, and in-store maintenance jobs are needed.

2. Print Media, Publishing, and Paper-Based Services

The rise of digital media has drastically reduced demand for printed products. Printing press maintenance, paper delivery logistics, and related trades have slowed down. The shift to screens means print-related jobs continue to decline each year.

3. Fossil Fuel and Coal Mining

Australia’s renewable energy transition is one of the biggest reasons for the decline in fossil fuel jobs. As the nation invests in solar and wind projects, coal mines are closing or downsizing. Many jobs tied to fuel transport, site maintenance, and infrastructure are affected.

4. Office Administration and Data Entry Roles

While not directly trade-related, automation in offices reduces administrative roles that supported industrial operations. Tradies who work in maintenance for large corporate buildings may notice fewer fit-outs or redesigns as companies shift to smaller or remote setups.

5. Agriculture and Rural Decline in Some Regions

Droughts, labour shortages, and rising costs have impacted agriculture. With smaller rural economies, many regional tradies who depended on farm machinery repair, fencing, or irrigation work are now seeing slower seasons.

Still, it’s not all bad news. Change often leads to innovation, and tradies who adjust early often come out ahead.

What do These Changes Mean for On-Ground Workers?

For tradies, these industry shifts bring both challenges and new paths. The work may look different, but demand for skilled hands never disappears.

1. The Ripple Effect on Trades and Construction

When industries like manufacturing or coal slow down, associated jobs decline too. For example, fewer mining projects mean fewer housing developments in nearby towns. This can reduce construction jobs in specific areas but may increase them in cities growing through urban renewal.

Tradies in construction, maintenance, and logistics must track where new demand is rising, from green energy sites to infrastructure rebuilds.

2. Tradies in Declining Sectors: The Warning Signs

Some tradie careers in declining sectors are already feeling the pinch. Electricians who once specialized in coal plant systems or plumbers serving industrial factories are facing reduced work orders.

Recognizing these warning signs early helps tradies plan better,  moving into sustainable energy installation, smart building systems, or renovation work instead.

3. The Emotional and Financial Impact

Beyond the numbers, this shift is personal. Many tradies have built entire careers in one sector, and changing fields isn’t easy. The key is staying flexible, seeking retraining where needed, and remembering that skill-based work will always be valuable in Australia.

How Tradies Can Stay Ahead of Change?

This is where things turn positive. Every period of change brings new openings,  especially for those willing to learn and adapt. Let’s understand how tradies can stay ahead in this change.

1. Rethinking Skills and Expanding Knowledge

The future belongs to tradies who keep learning. Skills like renewable energy installation, home automation, or water efficiency systems are in rising demand.

Tradies who focus on adapting trade skills to industry changes will find it easier to transition from declining sectors to emerging ones. Taking short courses, certifications, or safety upgrades can make a big difference.

2. Diversifying Service Areas and Job Types

A single trade skill can fit into multiple industries. A welder, for example, can shift from factory production to construction or renewable projects. By diversifying, tradies can balance their workload and income throughout the year.

Offering new services like solar panel mounting, EV charging installation, or smart home wiring helps stay relevant in changing markets.

3. Regional Shifts and Remote Work Opportunities

Australia’s work hubs are shifting. While some mining regions slow down, cities and coastal areas are booming with housing and renovation projects. Tradies who are open to relocation or short-term travel can find consistent work opportunities.

4. Building Personal Brands and Local Reputation

In the digital age, word of mouth happens online. A strong local reputation and verified presence help tradies attract consistent clients. Being visible on trusted platforms, collecting reviews, and showcasing completed work online can multiply job opportunities.

The Bright Side: Trades in High Demand Despite Decline

Not every trade is affected by the downturn. In fact, many are seeing record demand as Australia rebuilds homes, schools, and sustainable infrastructure.

1. Where the Demand Is Rising

Trades such as plumbing, electrical, roofing, HVAC, and renewable energy installation remain strong. These are trades in high demand despite decline in other industries.

Home renovation, repair, and sustainability projects are booming. Australia’s housing growth and green targets ensure that qualified tradies will stay busy for years.

2. Why Skilled Tradies Still Have the Upper Hand?

No machine can replace human precision and problem-solving on-site. Skilled tradies who bring reliability, craftsmanship, and up-to-date knowledge will always find work.

What the Next 5 Years Could Look Like for Tradies?

Looking ahead helps tradies make smart choices today. The next five years promise growth for those ready to prepare.

1. Australian Workforce Trends 2025 and Beyond

Research predicts a strong need for skilled labor in housing, green construction, energy, and technology-driven trades. As older workers retire, gaps in skilled trades will continue to widen.

Government initiatives around sustainability, infrastructure, and affordable housing will create thousands of new opportunities.

2. How Tradies Can Prepare for What’s Coming?

Here are some simple but powerful ways tradies can stay future-ready:

• Keep certifications up to date.

• Learn about renewable systems and smart home technology.

• Build strong online visibility.

• Join verified trade networks for job stability.

• Stay insured, licensed, and customer-focused.

Trusted Tradie Network: Helping Tradies and Homeowners Stay Connected

Finding reliable help can be stressful for homeowners, and getting steady work can be challenging for tradies,  but not anymore.

1. Making the Right Match Easy

Trusted Tradie Network is Australia’s growing platform that connects skilled tradies with people who need trusted services. From plumbers and electricians to carpenters and cleaners, every professional listed is background-checked, insured, and verified.

It’s easy to use, transparent, and built to support both customers and tradies. Whether you need repairs, installations, or renovations, Trusted Tradie Network makes hiring simple and safe.

2. Supporting Tradies During Industry Change

As industries shift, tradespeople need reliable platforms to maintain a steady workflow. Trusted Tradie Network helps skilled professionals build profiles, get local leads, and connect with genuine customers.

Even during sector slowdowns, the platform helps maintain visibility,  allowing tradies to explore more trade careers and expand their reach.

3. Why It’s the Right Time to Join?

Australia’s job market is shifting fast. Tradies who stay visible now will be ahead of the curve tomorrow. Joining Trusted Tradie Network ensures consistent opportunities, community support, and strong online credibility for every trade.

Conclusion

Change is not always easy, but it often brings progress. Australia’s declining industries are part of a natural shift toward modern and sustainable ways of working. Tradies who stay open, proactive, and skilled will never run out of work.

By adapting trade skills to industry changes, learning new techniques, and joining trusted networks, tradies can secure their future and continue doing what they love.

If you’re ready to grow your career, get reliable projects, and connect with real customers, it’s time to take the next step.

Join Trusted Tradie Network today to find new opportunities, showcase your skills, and stay in demand across Australia.