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Retail

Learn more about working in the industry.

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From cars to flowers, retail is part of our lives. This industry needs skilled workers to meet demand. You could be one of them.

Victoria’s retail trade industry currently employs more than 360,000 workers. It’s expected that 23,000 new workers will enter the industry by 2027, and that 111,200 will enter by 2034.* It’s a competitive, open market that’s both growing and transforming.

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 purchasing, home delivery or click and collect. 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.

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 Andrews case study

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.”

Paige Cotchin case study

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 Murphy case study

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.

Updated 3 April 2025

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