The Hunter’s jobs of the future

The Hunter has a proud history as Australia’s energy powerhouse. As the country moves towards a net zero economy, the region is building for the future – one powered by innovation.  

Across the Hunter, new jobs are emerging in machinery, equipment and defence manufacturing, advanced technology and renewable energy.  

As the region moves away from coal, many people are exploring training options to take advantage of in-demand careers. 

The Net Zero Economy Authority (NZEA) is working with Hunter communities to ensure workers are supported and job opportunities are maximised. 

‘We already know the Hunter is well-positioned to take advantage of the net zero transition. The region has the infrastructure, deep-sea port and skilled workforce – as well as those in training – to help bring the transition to life,’ said David Shankey, CEO of the Net Zero Economy Authority.  

‘Despite some of the challenges, the Hunter region has a bright future ahead of it, as people expand their training and knowledge to take on jobs essential to the energy transition,’ said Mr Shankey. 

TAFE NSW’s Hunter Net Zero Manufacturing Centre of Excellence is helping the next generation gain skills suited to the net zero transition, including training in renewable energy manufacturing. 

The centre offers several free short courses, integrating vocational education and training (VET) with higher education. It combines essential trade skills like electrical, welding, and fabrication – with higher-level study in areas like digital technologies. 

The Net Z(ed) education initiative, led by MCB Business Partners in the Hunter region, supported by seed funding from the Department of Employment and Workplace Relations (DEWR), helps school-aged students to explore real world opportunities in clean energy and sustainability.  

The Net Z(ed) program has engaged over 700 secondary school students in the Hunter region.  

This year, 50 students from Maitland Grossman High School participated in an extension of the program which saw them meet scientists and engineers in their labs and workshops to experience firsthand the latest renewable energy innovations being developed in the Hunter and exported globally. 

The Hunter-Central Coast Renewable Energy Zone received planning approval in September this year and will deliver upgrades to existing grid infrastructure, including distribution roles and networks. 

The NZEA is promoting businesses in the Hunter region that could be suppliers or participants in this local transmission work, along with work in surrounding renewable energy zones. This will help local businesses and workers be involved in these large-scale projects. 

The Hunter-Central Coast Renewable Energy Zone is expected to support thousands of jobs over the next decade. 

The NZEA is working with all levels of government, including the NSW Government and DEWR, to secure investment in the Hunter’s people, businesses, and communities.  

Recent NZEA workshops in Lake Macquarie and Singleton explored how this can be done, with specific focus to create new pathways for workers, industry and small businesses to thrive.  

‘With change comes challenge, but also great opportunity. Those training for the first time, or workers re-training in the skills needed for the energy transition, will see the benefits – as will their local communities. We are here for the Hunter – every step to net zero,’ concluded Mr Shankey. 

More information is available on our Hunter page.