Software and Applications Programmers
This occupation faces high overall risk, driven by both AI automation and immigration displacement, but strong projected growth (+15.7%) helps offset that concern. Entry is highly competitive with demanding qualification requirements, and earnings are well above average.
1. Immigration displacement risk
High riskHow likely jobs in this occupation could be affected by immigration-driven labour supply changes.
Source: ABS Census 2021 (TableBuilder, overseas-born by occupation). Data period: 2021.
2. AI / Automation risk
High riskLikelihood that tasks in this occupation could be automated by AI or robotics in the coming years.
Source: Jobs and Skills Australia, Generative AI Capacity Study. Data period: 2024.
3. Entry & opportunity
+15.7%
5-year (May 2025 → May 2030)
52.5k total
44.3% from replacement (retirements, exits)
How difficult to go from no experience to first job: based on share of entry-level ads (JSA) and typical qualification (ANZSCO). Approximate.
Employment is growing strongly and replacement adds many openings. Demand is high, but entry requirements are tough — education, credentials or experience matter.
Source: JSA Employment Projections (growth, openings); JSA Gen AI Study (entry-level share); ANZSCO skill level. Data period: May 2025–2030 (projections), 2024 (Gen AI).
4. Earnings
$2,610.20/week(~$135,730/year)
avg weekly total cash
Average weekly total cash earnings (all employees, Persons). Includes full-time and part-time.
Source: ABS Employee Earnings and Hours. Data period: May 2025.