The Australian medical technology (MedTech) industry is entering 2025 on a wave of strong growth and innovation. This sector – comprising over 500 companies – contributes over $11 billion to the economy and employs over 19,000 Australians (Australian MedTech industry to help add $18 billion and 28,000 new jobs by 2025 – MTAA). In recent years, MedTech in Australia has seen steady expansion in both market size and workforce. It now supports more than 17,000 high-skill jobs directly, and around 51,000 jobs in total when including indirect roles across the ecosystem (The Value of MedTech Report). With an ageing population and rising healthcare needs, along with robust government support, the MedTech sector’s upward trajectory shows no signs of slowing.

This 2025 outlook will explore the key drivers behind Australia’s booming MedTech industry, projected hiring trends in the coming year, and the recruitment challenges that both employers and job seekers face. We’ll also provide practical strategies for professionals looking to advance their MedTech careers and for companies aiming to attract top talent in an evolving job market. As a leading voice in the industry, MEDT offers insights to help you navigate these trends and succeed in Australia’s growing MedTech landscape.

MedTech Industry Growth in Australia: Key Drivers and Trends

Australia’s MedTech sector is experiencing robust growth, underpinned by several important drivers. Demographics and healthcare demand are a major factor. Australians are living longer, and an ageing population means higher incidence of chronic diseases and a greater need for medical devices and diagnostics (). At the same time, global demand for MedTech is rising – particularly in the Asia-Pacific region. Growing prosperity in neighbouring Asian economies is increasing demand for healthcare services and medical devices, creating larger export markets for Australian MedTech firms (). These demographic trends are fueling local industry expansion as companies innovate to meet both domestic and international healthcare needs.

Technological innovation is another key growth driver. Advances in areas like biotechnology, digital health, and artificial intelligence are opening new frontiers for MedTech. From AI-powered diagnostic tools to telehealth platforms and wearable medical devices, technology is enabling the next generation of healthcare solutions. Notably, the integration of AI and machine learning is transforming MedTech by improving product performance and creating new service models. However, a recent analysis found that less than 10% of MedTech professionals in the Asia-Pacific have advanced AI skill sets – a significant bottleneck to fully capitalising on these innovations (Establishing the Asia-Pacific Region as a Medtech AI Capability Hub | Bain & Company). This highlights both the potential and the need for upskilling in emerging technologies as the sector grows.

Strong government and investor support also underpins the MedTech boom. The Australian government has recognised MedTech (as part of the broader MTP sector – Medical Technologies and Pharmaceuticals) as a priority industry for economic development (MTPConnect reports strong growth in Australia’s Medtech, Biotech and Pharmaceutical sector | BioMelbourne Network). Over the past decade, initiatives like the $20 billion Medical Research Future Fund and the $500 million Biomedical Translation Fund have injected funding to accelerate medical innovation and commercialisation (Australian MedTech industry to help add $18 billion and 28,000 new jobs by 2025 – MTAA). More recently, the government’s National Reconstruction Fund (NRF) – a $15 billion investment pool – is set to bolster advanced manufacturing, including medical product manufacturing, to strengthen sovereign capabilities (). These investments provide local MedTech companies with capital to scale R&D, manufacturing, and product commercialisation. Combined with Australia’s robust regulatory framework (via the TGA) and world-class research institutions, such support is creating a fertile environment for MedTech growth.

The results of these drivers are evident in the numbers. Industry revenue has been climbing at a healthy pace (over 6% annual growth in recent years (The Value of MedTech Report)), and export values are rising as well. By 2022, Australian MedTech companies generated about $11.4 billion in gross revenue (The Value of MedTech Report). Employment has followed suit – growing roughly 5% year-on-year – as companies expand their teams to keep up with demand (The Value of MedTech Report). Looking ahead, earlier projections indicated the MedTech and pharma sector could add tens of thousands of jobs by the mid-2020s (Australian MedTech industry to help add $18 billion and 28,000 new jobs by 2025 – MTAA). Indeed, the sector today supports over 51,000 Australian jobs (direct and indirect) and continues to expand (The Value of MedTech Report). All indicators suggest that 2025 will see further growth, with new startups emerging, established firms scaling up, and increased hiring across the board to drive innovation in healthcare technology.

Projected Hiring Trends in MedTech for 2025

With the industry’s growth set to continue, hiring activity in the MedTech sector is expected to be strong in 2025. Both established medical device companies and agile healthtech startups are planning to expand teams, making MedTech one of the exciting areas for job opportunities in Australia’s healthcare and technology landscape. Recent data show that a majority of MedTech companies anticipate revenue growth, which typically goes hand-in-hand with new hiring to support expanded operations (The Value of MedTech Report).

High-demand roles span a wide range of disciplines. On the technical side, companies are recruiting for roles in product research & development (R&D) – from biomedical engineers and design specialists to clinical research managers for trials. The push toward digital health means software developers and data analysts with healthcare experience are increasingly sought after. In fact, cross-disciplinary talent is at a premium: skills in areas like software engineering or data science combined with medical device knowledge are particularly valuable in today’s MedTech job market (). As devices become smarter and more connected, expect continued growth in jobs related to health informatics, AI applications in medical devices, and cybersecurity for protecting patient data.

Beyond R&D and tech, MedTech companies are also bolstering their commercial and operational teams. Roles in regulatory affairs and quality assurance are critical, as firms must navigate complex TGA regulations and global compliance standards for their products. Manufacturing and supply chain talent is in demand too – especially as local manufacturing capabilities expand with government support. (In a 2024 survey, nearly half of MedTech companies reported shortages of warehousing and logistics staff, reflecting the need to hire in operations roles to keep supply chains running smoothly (Medical Technology Association of Australia).) Meanwhile, established firms continue to seek experienced sales and marketing professionals to drive adoption of their devices in hospitals and clinics. In fact, sales/marketing, manufacturing, clinical research, and supply chain roles collectively make up a large portion of the MedTech workforce today (Medical Technology Association of Australia) – and these fields are set to see further hiring growth.

Another notable trend is the focus on specialised skill sets. Employers are looking for candidates with not only technical expertise but also the ability to operate in a highly regulated, collaborative healthcare environment. For example, there is rising demand for professionals who understand both the science behind a device and the commercialisation process – those who can help take a product from lab to market. MedTech firms also value candidates with experience in clinical settings (to liaise with healthcare providers) or familiarity with health economics and reimbursement (to navigate market access for new technologies). As such, job seekers who can demonstrate a mix of technical know-how, regulatory awareness, and business acumen will have an edge in 2025’s job market.

Overall, job seekers can expect a candidate-friendly market in MedTech, with ample opportunities across engineering, science, and business roles. However, competition for top positions may still be stiff as companies seek the best talent to fuel their growth. In the next section, we’ll discuss some challenges that could temper the hiring surge and how both employers and candidates can navigate them.

Challenges in MedTech Recruitment

Despite the positive outlook, the MedTech industry faces several recruitment challenges heading into 2025. The rapid growth of the sector has led to a talent shortage in key areas, and companies often struggle to find professionals with the right skill sets. According to a recent industry survey, 64% of Australian MedTech companies find it difficult to source local talent for certain roles (Medical Technology Association of Australia). Highly specialised positions – whether in regulatory affairs, product development, or clinical engineering – require combinations of skills and experience that are still relatively rare. While Australia produces excellent graduates in biomedical science and engineering, many employers report that new graduates lack the specific industry experience or relevant qualifications needed to be job-ready in MedTech (). This skills gap means competition is fierce for candidates who do tick all the boxes, and open positions can take a long time to fill.

Compounding the local skills gap, companies have also faced hurdles in tapping international talent. Over half of MedTech firms surveyed said it is difficult to bring in skilled professionals from overseas in a timely manner (Medical Technology Association of Australia). Australia’s visa and immigration processes, while improving, can be slow and complex for highly specialised roles. Pandemic-related travel disruptions in recent years further highlighted the need for a robust domestic talent pipeline. When firms cannot hire fast enough, it can slow down projects and growth. In supply chain functions, for example, a shortage of qualified staff has been cited as a factor delaying timely delivery of medical products (Medical Technology Association of Australia). For smaller startups, limited hiring budgets and less brand recognition add another layer of challenge in attracting top-tier candidates against larger competitors.

Another issue is the competition for talent with other industries. MedTech relies on many STEM skills (science, technology, engineering, maths) that are also in demand in sectors like biotech, pharma, and general tech. A software engineer or data scientist might have opportunities in finance or big tech companies, so MedTech firms must work hard to entice such talent. In some cases, MedTech employers have resorted to hiring workers from adjacent industries and then training them on medical-specific knowledge. For instance, companies have hired IT specialists from the telecommunications sector to fill roles requiring software expertise in health tech (). This cross-industry recruiting can help bridge immediate skills gaps, but it underscores the broader issue: a need to broaden the talent pool and upskill workers for MedTech-specific competencies.

Lastly, awareness of MedTech careers among job seekers is something the industry continues to address. Historically, there’s been a lack of clear career pathways communicated to students and professionals about opportunities in MedTech (). If potential candidates don’t understand how their skills apply to developing life-saving medical technologies, they may not consider jobs in this field. The industry and educational institutions are beginning to collaborate more to promote MedTech roles (for example, introducing MedTech content into university curricula and internships). Overcoming these perception and knowledge gaps is crucial to ensure a steady pipeline of passionate, skilled talent for the future.

Strategies for Job Seekers: How to Succeed in the MedTech Job Market

For professionals and graduates eyeing opportunities in MedTech, being proactive and strategic in your approach can greatly improve your chances of landing a rewarding role. Here are some tips to navigate the MedTech job market in 2025:

• Build In-Demand Skills: Identify and develop the skill sets that employers are seeking. These often include regulatory knowledge, understanding of quality standards, and hands-on experience with medical product development. If you come from a software or data background, gain familiarity with healthcare data systems or standards. Conversely, if you have a life sciences background, consider upskilling in areas like data analysis or AI. Bridging these skill areas makes you a valuable cross-disciplinary candidate.
• Gain Practical Experience: Practical experience is gold in MedTech. Seek out internships, research projects, or entry-level roles that allow you to work on real medical technology projects. Experience in regulated environments (such as working on a TGA-approved product, or in a hospital lab setting) can set you apart. If you’re a recent graduate, highlight any industry collaboration projects or capstone work on medical devices – and be ready to demonstrate your understanding of the MedTech product lifecycle from concept to market.
• Leverage Industry Networks: Networking is vital. Engage with organisations like the Medical Technology Association of Australia (MTAA), industry events, and MedTech innovation hubs. Attending conferences (e.g. AusBiotech, MTAA events) or local meetups can help you learn about the latest industry trends and meet insiders. These connections might alert you to job openings and provide referrals. Join online forums or LinkedIn groups focused on MedTech and contribute to discussions to raise your profile as an informed professional.
• Tailor Your Application: When applying for roles, tailor your resume and cover letter to the MedTech context. Emphasise any experience with healthcare products, clinical settings, or strict regulatory compliance. Use keywords relevant to the industry (e.g. ISO 13485, clinical trials, MDR/TGA approval, biomedical engineering). Show that you understand the company’s mission to improve healthcare – passion for the impact of MedTech can go a long way. Be prepared to discuss why you’re drawn to medical technology and how your skill set will help deliver solutions for patients.
• Stay Informed and Agile: The MedTech field evolves rapidly, with new technologies and regulations emerging. Stay up-to-date with industry news – for instance, follow publications or blogs (like the one you’re reading) that cover MedTech trends. Consider obtaining certifications or short courses in specific areas (such as Good Manufacturing Practice, medical device software compliance, or health economics) to bolster your expertise. Demonstrating a learning mindset and adaptability tells employers that you will grow with the job as the industry changes.

By taking these steps, job seekers can position themselves as standout candidates in a growing but competitive field. The MedTech industry offers the reward of working on innovations that directly improve lives – and with the right preparation, you can become part of this inspiring sector.

Strategies for Employers: Attracting and Retaining Top Talent

For MedTech companies in Australia, success in 2025 will heavily depend on recruiting and retaining the right talent. Here are strategies employers can use to overcome hiring challenges and build strong teams:

• Expand the Talent Pipeline: Proactively broaden your recruitment reach. Partner with universities, TAFEs, and training institutes to create pathways into MedTech – such as graduate programs, internships, or co-op placements. By engaging students early and offering clear career paths, you can groom future employees and increase awareness of MedTech opportunities () (). Additionally, consider candidates from adjacent industries (tech, manufacturing, pharma) who have transferable skills. Recruiting talent from other sectors and providing supplemental MedTech training can fill roles where direct industry experience is scarce ().
• Offer Competitive Benefits and Growth: In a tight labour market, make your organisation attractive to job seekers. Benchmark salaries to ensure they are competitive with both local and international standards. Beyond salary, highlight benefits that appeal to today’s workforce – such as flexible work arrangements, opportunities for continual learning, and clear progression pathways. Emphasise the mission-driven nature of MedTech work; many professionals are drawn to the idea of improving patient outcomes, so underline the meaningful impact employees can have in your company.
• Invest in Upskilling Your Team: Retention is as important as recruitment. Invest in professional development programs to upskill your existing staff in emerging areas (for example, training engineers in regulatory affairs or data analytics). Not only does this help fill skill gaps, but it also boosts morale and loyalty as employees see a future with growth in your company. Support attendance at industry workshops, certifications, and conferences. An internal culture of learning and innovation will both keep your team engaged and make your company more appealing to prospective hires.
• Leverage Skilled Migration (Where Needed): If certain specialised roles are hard to fill locally, don’t hesitate to recruit globally – but do so strategically. Stay informed on Australia’s skilled migration lists and visa programs relevant to MedTech occupations (for instance, roles like biomedical engineers, regulatory specialists, or medical software developers). Streamline your sponsorship process to minimise delays, and provide relocation support to make the transition attractive. International experts can bring invaluable experience and also help mentor local staff, so they are an important part of the talent mix. Industry groups like MTAA are actively advocating to improve skilled migration processes for MedTech roles (Medical Technology Association of Australia), which may ease some hurdles.
• Foster an Innovative and Inclusive Culture: Lastly, create a workplace environment that retains talent. MedTech professionals often seek workplaces that are innovative, inclusive, and purpose-driven. Encourage cross-functional collaboration (e.g. between engineers, clinicians, and business teams) to solve problems and spark new ideas. Implement diversity and inclusion initiatives to tap into a wider talent pool – diverse teams often drive better innovation. Celebrate successes and reinforce how each employee’s work contributes to improving healthcare. A positive culture not only keeps your current employees happy but also turns them into ambassadors who attract others to join.

By implementing these strategies, employers can better position themselves in the race for talent. Companies that build their teams thoughtfully will be well-equipped to capitalise on the growth of Australia’s MedTech sector.

Conclusion: Navigating the Future of MedTech in Australia

Australia’s MedTech industry is poised for another strong year in 2025, with growth in innovation, job opportunities, and global impact. Both job seekers and employers have much to gain – and also responsibilities to adapt – in this evolving landscape. For professionals, it’s a time to acquire new skills, stay agile, and align with the industry’s mission of improving healthcare. For companies, it’s critical to invest in people and foster partnerships that strengthen the talent pipeline. The challenges of skills shortages and competition are real, but they can be overcome through collaboration and forward-thinking strategies.

As we look ahead, one thing is clear: the future of MedTech in Australia will be shaped by the people driving it. By staying informed of industry trends and embracing continuous learning, you can ensure you’re part of that future, whether you’re developing the next breakthrough medical device or assembling a team of innovators.

MEDT is committed to supporting Australia’s MedTech community through these exciting times. Whether you’re seeking your next opportunity or aiming to hire exceptional talent, we’re here to help you navigate the journey. Together, let’s make 2025 a year of growth and success in Australian MedTech.