Industry Insights for 2025 in the Outer East
The Outer East region of Melbourne, encompassing areas such as Knox, Maroondah, and Yarra Ranges, has a diverse economic profile. As of December 2019, the youth unemployment rate in this region was 8.4%, with manufacturing identified as the largest industry. *
While more recent specific data for the Outer East is limited, it's essential to recognise that youth unemployment rates can fluctuate due to various factors, including economic conditions and industry demands.
Key Industries and Employment Opportunities
Several industries in the Outer East offer promising opportunities for young job seekers:
Manufacturing: Historically a significant employer in the region, manufacturing continues to provide roles ranging from production to quality assurance.
Retail Trade: With numerous shopping centers and retail outlets, positions in sales, customer service, and inventory management are also prevalent.
Healthcare and Social Assistance: As the community grows, so does the demand for healthcare services, offering roles in patient care, administration, and support services. This year we are supporting Eastern Health with student placements at hospitals in Maroondah and Yarra Ranges.
Construction: Ongoing development projects in the region and the suburban crawl of the East create opportunities in various trades and project management ranging from new builds through to maintenance and generalised trade.
Competitive Industries
Popular career paths in the outer east are becoming increasingly competitive for young people.
The outer eastern suburbs of Melbourne continue to be a thriving hub for small business, with the electrical and beauty industries standing out as particularly competitive sectors.
Local shopping centers like Knox City and Eastland have attracted clusters of beauty businesses, from boutique salons to day spas, creating vibrant beauty precincts that draw customers from across the region.
Meanwhile, the electrical industry maintains a strong presence throughout Knox, Maroondah and the Yarra Ranges, with both residential and commercial contractors vying for market share in this growing area. Many with several apprentices in place already.
The beauty sector has seen especially fierce competition for apprentices, trainees and work placement students in recent years, as established businesses compete with a steady stream of new entrepreneurs entering the market.
Resources and Support for Young Job Seekers
To navigate the transition from school to employment, students can lean on the LLEN to support their journey.
By staying informed about local employment trends and actively engaging with available resources, young people in Melbourne's Outer East can successfully transition from school to meaningful and rewarding careers.
