Australia’s 2020 Fastest‑Growing Industries: Manufacturing, Healthcare, Construction, Energy, Food, Tech

Australia remains one of the world’s most resilient and developed economies, attracting foreign investment and fostering global innovation.

Below are the six sectors projected to drive growth in 2020 and beyond.

The Manufacturing Industry

Manufacturing is a cornerstone of Australia’s economy. The nation pioneered innovations such as the ultrasound scanner, the bionic ear, and the black‑box flight recorder. Today, the sector generates over $100 billion in annual output and represents a significant export engine.

Manufacturing accounts for roughly 48 % of Australia’s exports. Advances in automation, digitisation, and smart manufacturing are reshaping operations, positioning the industry as an export‑focused ecosystem that delivers high‑quality, custom solutions to global supply chains.

Healthcare Industry

Australia’s healthcare system is consistently ranked among the world’s best. An ageing population, coupled with rising demand for high‑quality, affordable care, makes the sector a key growth engine.

The industry integrates cutting‑edge technology, clinical research, and a highly skilled workforce. Ongoing clinical trials—such as ICN Firefly and biomedicine studies—signal continued expansion. Tele‑medicine and tele‑diagnostics are extending Australian expertise to offshore markets, while AI and big‑data analytics accelerate service delivery.

Construction Industry

The construction sector, encompassing building, renovation, and infrastructure maintenance, drives more than $350 billion in revenue, contributing 8 % of GDP.

With an annual growth rate of 2.5 % projected over the next five years, the industry employs over 1.5 million Australians. Residential construction now represents 36 % of the sector’s output, reflecting strong demand for housing.

Energy Industry

Australia’s energy landscape includes production, distribution, and supply. The country boasts vast renewable resources and ample land for large‑scale plants.

Energy generation is dominated by coal—77 % of electricity—followed by gas (9 %), hydro (8 %), wind (5 %), and solar (3 %). With over 300 market generators, distributors, and service providers, the sector is poised to become a major export driver, potentially generating hundreds of billions of dollars.

Food Industry

The food sector—including dairy, confectionery, meat, seafood, grains, bakery, and produce—has surged amid the COVID‑19 pandemic. Convenience and on‑the‑go meals are in high demand, as are online food platforms.

Australia’s reputation for natural, clean food with minimal chemical residues fuels consumer preference for healthy options. Growing population and rising health awareness continue to drive demand for diverse, high‑quality products.

Tech Industry

Nearly 49 % of Australian businesses invest in emerging technologies to drive growth. From the bionic ear to polymer banknotes, Australian innovation spans AI, data analytics, 3D printing, and robotics.

With a yearly contribution of AUD 122 billion (USD 83 billion) to GDP—6.6 % of national output—the tech sector fuels new product development and opens global markets, cementing Australia’s status as a competitive modern economy.

Collectively, these booming industries create a stable environment for entrepreneurs and professionals, generating employment and sustaining economic momentum.