What Lies Ahead ...
Other than a crystal ball and some well placed intentions no-one is able to predict the future, let alone foresee employment opportunities.Having said that, economists and industry representatives such as employers and Government institutions have boldly stated there will be a shift in a number of broadcast positions available into 2012.
They are in the main, positive in growth and will be explained in more detail further on in this editorial.
The backbone behind such predictions is founded by technology and commercial expansion.
Some recent changes such as the Australian Communication Authority merging to form The Australian Communications and Media Authority on July 1st this year, will address the digital environment with evolving technologies such as Digital Radio.
Although the broadcast community remains nervous with already 300 radio licences granted between 1995 and 2001, it’s technology driven, providing numerous business opportunities as we progress through 2006.
As there will be significant investment into new equipment and content the effects are compounded through suppliers, installation and staffing.
This is but one of many conduits through which we will experience growth, although in the above example it probably won’t be seen till the latter part of 2006.
As experienced by the 2000 Olympics, the 2006 Melbourne Commonwealth Games will be another shot in the arm for Australia as well the broadcast community.
For those who know Gary Fenton who was CEO of SOBO, (Ex Director of Sport for Seven) he’s been given the task to set up the International Broadcast Centre at next years Commonwealth Games.
It’s successful events like these that bring to Australia not only commercial opportunities but also interest by the broader International community to seek out and secure both a career and family in Australia.
Similarly, on the other side of the world a number of Australians, young broadcast professionals such as engineers have for the last six months been attracted to places like the new Broadcast Centre in White City, London. Known as “the tapeless wonderland” it’s the most technologically advanced playout facility in Europe.
This trade of knowledge is not uncommon and will continue to increase in frequency throughout 2006.
WHAT WILL AFFECT GROWTH?
Reflective of the US (Department of Labour), Australia is perceived to follow by similar statistics.
Overall employment in broadcasting is forecast to improve by 9% up to 2012.
The growth rate will however be affected negatively by new technologies, consolidation and from increased competition.
New technologies will in the short term generate employment opportunities but in the longer term may cause a reduction in staff due to design benefits such as remote monitoring and reliability.
In terms of consolidation of businesses or companies merging, a reduction of resources either facilities and/or staff will eventuate.
It’s envisaged that a number of significant global mergers will continue to occur throughout the next 12 months.
Other influencing factors on growth patterns will stem from services such as the internet, video-on-demand and prepared programming sourced by satellite, in lieu of local content.
SO WHERE ARE THE HOT SPOTS?
Perceived to be from most to least sought after:
* Integrated Telco related professions.
* Installation, maintenance and repair
* Computer based roles, Systems Engineering
* Business Operations
* Advertising, Marketing, Public Relations, Sales
* Engineering
Although Engineering appears at the lower end of the list, positions within Engineering will also exist in ‘Installation, Maintenance and Repair’ as it accompanies and involves a higher level of technology.
More specifically;
* Advertising, Marketing, Promotions, Public Relations and Sales Managers
21 percent to 35 percent growth
* Actors, Producers and Directors 10 percent – 20 percent growth
* Broadcast Engineering and Radio Operators 10 percent – 20 percent growth
* Television, Video and Motion Picture Camera Operators and Editors 10 percent -20 percent growth
A breakdown of broadcast engineers show that 32 percent will work in broadcasting (except the internet), 16 percent in motion picture and sound recording studios, and 1 in 10 will be self employed.
Statistics shown are aggregate to Radio, Television, Multimedia and Film.
Genre dissected figures for all categories were not available, nor figures relating to freelance, contract or permanent employees.
IN SUMMARY
As technology continues to influence growth patterns, all technology proficient individuals relative to their field of experience, whether it’s sales, marketing, production or engineering will be in higher demand.Global experience will also be highly regarded.


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