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Skills shortage may hit Australia's post-COVID growth

Tuesday, November 16, 2021

Significance

The closing of internal and external borders in response to COVID-19 has heightened a longstanding skills deficit in key industries, with implications for wage levels, prices and broader economic growth. However, a general increase in immigrant numbers may not provide the skills that are needed.

Impacts

  • Labour shortfalls may delay government infrastructure projects that were designed to lead the post-pandemic economic recovery.
  • Foreign investment may be affected by skills shortages in key areas such as mining and metallurgy.
  • Debate on immigration levels could influence voting in the general election that is now likely to be held in April.

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