Melbourne’s south-east region is a thriving and diverse economic powerhouse. It offers job opportunities across a variety of in-demand industries. Beaches and wineries drive a large tourism and hospitality sector.
The manufacturing industry is a large employer across the region, with almost half of Melbourne’s manufacturing jobs located here. The government is also investing in significant infrastructure projects to support the growing population. These projects need more apprentices and workers.
There are many job opportunities across the south-east region. There is a range of TAFE and training locations available to improve your skills and open up your career options.
Training and careers in Melbourne’s south-east region
TAFE and training providers in Melbourne’s south-east
Explore local TAFE and training providers across Melbourne’s south-eastern region.
Search for training courses near you
Thinking of doing some training? Search over 500 government-funded TAFE and training courses on the Victorian Skills Gateway.
Help finding a job in Melbourne’s south-east
Learn what support is available to find work in Melbourne’s south-eastern region.
Future job growth in Melbourne’s south-east
Explore jobs in demand in Melbourne’s south-east region and how many workers will be needed in the coming years.
Local career success stories
Never too late: Debbie finds her passion in mental health
“I help people with complex mental health needs who are working towards recovery. This looks different for each individual. Knowing you can be there to help them achieve their goals is so rewarding.”
Career gold mine: Greg’s tips to master a metal trade
“There’s a real shortage of skilled trades across the board. We’re looking for people who are mechanically minded. Manufacturing is an evolving industry, you can really be whatever you want to be.”
Leela savours success as a junior sous chef
”I found a supportive community with my peers and teachers. They played an important role in refining my culinary skills. Chefs are one of the most in-demand jobs, so there’s lots of opportunity.“
Shaping lives: Sean and Jaike help people find their career pathways
“I love being able to help people to get a job or into a course. Seeing someone come through our doors and being able to take them from one place in their life to the next is a great feeling.”
Quick facts about Melbourne‘s south-eastern region
Population: 2,572,762^
Total new workers needed by 2026:
- Inner south-east region: 24,333*
- Southern metropolitan region: 46,001*
- Eastern metropolitan region: 44,511*
Known for:
- Culturally diverse restaurants and communities
- Bayside beaches and the Mornington Peninsula
- Dandenong ranges
- Phillip Island
- Major manufacturing precincts.
Key industries:
Local government areas:
Eastern suburbs:
- Knox City Council(opens in a new window)
- Manningham Council(opens in a new window)
- Maroondah City Council(opens in a new window)
- City of Monash(opens in a new window)
- Whitehorse City Council(opens in a new window)
- Yarra Ranges Council(opens in a new window).
Southern suburbs:
- Cardinia Shire Council(opens in a new window)
- City of Casey(opens in a new window)
- Greater Dandenong(opens in a new window)
- Frankston City(opens in a new window)
- City of Kingston(opens in a new window)
- Mornington Peninsula Shire(opens in a new window).
Official region names:
- Inner south east metropolitan region
- Southern metropolitan region
- Eastern metropolitan region.
Explore growing industries across Victoria
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.
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.
^ Sourced from Victoria in Future – VIF2023 Data Explorer(opens in a new window)
2021 combined data for:
- Inner south east metropolitan region (528,945)
- Southern metropolitan region (1,120,049)
- Eastern metropolitan region (923,768).
* Sourced from Victorian Skills Authority Employment Forecast Dashboard
Updated