A growing talent gap is emerging in Australia's engineering industry, according to new figures.

Compiled by Consult Australia, the report warns that the expanding skills shortages could affect the sector's future growth and restrict innovation in the country.

Those seeking engineering jobs in Australia may be particularly interested in the research, which indicates government and industry action is required to address the current situation, as three-quarters of companies polled stated they are suffering critical shortages of personnel to fill positions.

Megan Motto, chief executive of Consult Australia, remarked: "Despite the downturn following the global financial crisis, the shortage is back just as strong as ever, demonstrating that the global shortage of engineers is a systemic problem."

In addition, the Engineering Skills Survey suggests plans are in place to provide $400 billion of extra infrastructure over the next decade, something that could be jeopardized by the talent gap.

Consult Australia reports that the country's engineering consulting sector employs around 124,000 people and generates annual revenues in the region of $18.5 billion per year, or an estimated 1.85 per cent of total gross domestic product.

Posted by Lee Thrace