Job Demand
Job Demand
Demand Across Australia
The RAC industry continues to experience strong demand across Australia, making it one of the most secure and rewarding skilled trades. As the population grows, commercial infrastructure expands, and temperatures rise, the need for qualified technicians who can install, maintain, and repair these systems remains high.
National workforce data indicates roughly 29,700 air conditioning and refrigeration mechanics are employed across Australia, with the occupation offering earnings above the national average and strong opportunities across all states and territories.
Why demand is growing
Climate & cooling
A warm climate and more frequent heatwaves drive ongoing demand for air conditioning in homes, offices, schools, hospitals, shopping centres, and industry.
Construction & infrastructure
New residential, commercial, hospital, data centre, and industrial projects all require RAC systems — each creating installation, commissioning, and maintenance work.
Cold chain & food
Food production, logistics, and supermarket sectors rely heavily on refrigeration, with cold storage and distribution centres needing skilled tradespeople.
Technology & efficiency
Advanced systems with digital controls, automation, BMS, and low-emission refrigerants increase demand for workers with specialised technical skills.
Skills shortages create opportunities
The trade has been identified as a skills shortage occupation for many years, with employers frequently reporting difficulty finding qualified technicians — particularly in commercial and industrial refrigeration. This has contributed to strong job security, competitive wages, and excellent progression, and the occupation appears on Australia’s skilled occupation lists.
Where demand is strongest
Employment forecasts indicate continued growth. Ongoing construction, expanding cold-chain logistics, increasing use of air conditioning, and the transition to energy-efficient technologies are expected to sustain demand — keeping employment prospects strong well into the future.