From cars to flowers, retail is part of our lives. This industry needs skilled workers. You could be one of them.
It’s projected that 23,027 new retail trade workers will be needed in Victoria by 2027, and 111,231 new workers by 2034.*
Victoria’s retail industry is worth over $70 billion, employing over 300,000 workers. It’s a competitive, open market that’s both growing and transforming. The industry needs skilled workers to meet demand.
You could work anywhere from a small business to the flagship of an international company. Top jobs in demand include sales assistants, managers, cashiers and pharmacy sales assistants.
Today, consumers are more conscious of how their goods are sourced. They also want to know what impact their products have on the environment. More and more, in-store experiences are just one touchpoint. A consumer journey can also include online browsing and/or home delivery. New workers must have the skills to adapt.
Vocational Education and Training (VET) provides pathways for a range of retail roles. For example, you could be a pharmacy sales assistant, a customer service supervisor, or a fashion designer. Some roles like a florist can be done as an apprenticeship, so you can earn an income while you learn on the job.
Explore the information below to learn more about working in the retail industry.
Training and skills in retail
What it’s like to work in retail
Find out what to expect on a day-to-day basis, what people love about the work and how much you can earn.
Featured retail jobs
Browse some of the most popular jobs in retail.
Training and skills to work in retail
Explore training courses and skills to start working in retail. If you already work in the industry, training can help advance your career.
Get financial assistance for training and other expenses
You may be eligible for Free TAFE or Skills First funding to help pay for your training.
Getting a job in retail
No matter where you are in your career journey, these resources can help you search for jobs and opportunities.
Resources and advice to plan your next steps
Use these free services and resources to plan your next steps. Learn about training options and funding, get career advice, and more.
Career success stories
Tahlia channels her creative flair into a career in floristry
“I found that the skills I was learning in the course I was able to practise in the workplace. It lights up people’s faces when they see their idea come to life from the flowers they have chosen.”
Styled for self-image: Paige’s hairdressing impact
“Our apprenticeships are naturally very practical. You’re in the salon getting first-hand experience which opens up windows of opportunity for learning, growth and making connections in the industry.”
James makes waves in the tourism industry
“TAFE provided a practical pathway to get back to my education after taking time away. It’s been the foundation for my future business ventures in the service and tourism industry.”
Explore growing industries in your region
Training and careers in your region
Explore training, skills and job opportunities in your area of Victoria. Find out where you could work, what kind of job you could do, and what training you’ll need.
Training and careers in growing industries
Learn about high demand industries in Victoria. Find out where you could work, what kind of jobs you could do, and what training you’ll need.
Statistics source: Victorian Skills Authority Employment Projections Dashboard.
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