The global job market is undergoing a profound shift. According to the World Economic Forum’s Future of Jobs 2025 report, while 92 million roles are expected to be displaced by 2030, 170 million new ones will be created. That represents a net gain of 78 million jobs, but only for individuals and organisations prepared to adapt. To remain competitive and employable, individuals and organisations must begin now to focus on the skills that will define the next generation of work.

Several transformative trends are reshaping what skills employers value. Accelerated adoption of AI, big data and emerging technologies is changing how tasks are performed and decisions are made. Economic uncertainty, rising living costs and demographic shifts, including ageing populations and emerging markets, are altering workforce composition. Meanwhile, climate change and the green economy are creating new expectations around environmental literacy, and geopolitical fragmentation and supply chain pressures are challenging traditional business models. Each of these forces is not only reshaping business models but also changing the types of roles and skills employers value most.

By 2030, the skills most in demand will fall into two broad categories: technical and digital fluency, and human-centred leadership and adaptability. With AI tools already integrated into many workflows, employees will need to understand how to work with AI tools such as ChatGPT, Microsoft Copilot or Google Gemini, understand basic prompt engineering and automation and interpret data and integrate insights into decision-making

Cybersecurity and digital awareness are equally critical. With more work conducted online and on cloud-based platforms, all employees must know how to manage data securely, collaborate safely and understand the digital environments that underpin modern work.

Equally important are human-centred skills, including adaptability, resilience, and agility. The ability to respond effectively under pressure, solve problems creatively, and maintain productivity amid disruption will differentiate employees in fast-moving industries. Leadership and interpersonal skills will also take on greater importance as AI automates routine functions. Coaching, mentoring, communication, and the ability to influence and navigate organisational change will remain uniquely human competencies that organisations value highly

Build a Future-Ready Workforce ?

We help organisations across Australia prepare for the future of work through targeted, practical and flexible training programs. Our courses help employees build confidence with emerging technologies, strengthen communication, leadership, and adaptability
By equipping employees with the skills that matter most for 2030 and beyond, organisations can build a workforce that is agile, capable, and ready to meet the challenges of the future of work.

Enhance your computer training skills with courses at Odyssey Training. Odyssey Training is dedicated to equipping the nation’s workforce with the skills to enhance their competitiveness in the workplace. Discover our range of Microsoft Office courses.