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CNC Operators Survey

Overcoming Australia’s CNC Workforce Shortage

Australia’s manufacturing sector is currently facing a critical shortage of skilled Computer Numerical Control (CNC) operators. According to recent industry estimates, there are more than 1,000 immediate vacancies across the country, highlighting a pressing gap in the current labor market. To stabilize the sector and support its long-term viability, the industry urgently needs to attract, recruit, and train at least 3,000 new operators nationally.

The Data and Classification Gap

At AMTIL’s 2025 National Manufacturing Technology Skills Summit, industry leaders confirmed that Australia lacks a unified understanding of CNC roles. Because there is no dedicated ANZSCO code for "CNC Operator," businesses must use mismatched classifications like Metal Machinist (First Class) or Machine Operators.

This data gap reflects highly inconsistent job titles across the sector—spanning entry-level workers to advanced technologists. Resolving this requires clearer terminology, better workforce data, and a credible national evidence base.

The National Survey Objective

Summit participants agreed to launch a national survey to expand on initial workforce findings. The survey aims to:

  • Forecast workforce demand across 2 - 5 year outlooks.

  • Capture industry insights on shifting roles and skill requirements.

  • Gather diverse, high-volume feedback to ensure data credibility.

The insights collected will directly support the creation of formal CNC occupational standards, a dedicated OSCA code, and clearer pathways for industry, educators, and government.

Some questions ask about government support or include optional fields for your business name or email. AMTIL is not providing funding assistance or government support. These questions are included only to help us understand industry needs. Any identifying information will be used internally for analysis and will not appear in public reporting.

Terminology Note:
Industry uses various overlapping titles (operator, machinist, setter, programmer, technician). For consistency, this survey uses "CNC operator" as an umbrella term covering all CNC-related roles.

Thank you for contributing to this national effort to strengthen Australia’s manufacturing future.

1. Your Organisation

What type of organisation are you? *This question is required.
4. CNC Machines
Does your organisation operate CNC machines? *This question is required.
Please select all CNC Machines that apply *This question is required.
Current CNC Workforce
How many CNC operator/s do you currently employ? *This question is required.
5.

Core Skills
Which core skills are important for CNC roles in your organisation? (Select all that apply)

*This question is required.
6.

Core Skills
Should CNC operators also be skilled in manual machining?

*This question is required.
7.

Future Skills
Which skills will become more important in the next 5 years? (Select all that apply)

*This question is required.
8.

Future Skills
Do you expect AI‑enabled CNC tools (e.g., toolpath optimisation, predictive maintenance) to impact your CNC workforce in the next 5 years?

*This question is required.
9.

Future Skills
Which best describes your organisation’s use of AI‑enabled CNC tools (e.g., toolpath optimisation, predictive maintenance)?

*This question is required.
10. Workforce Needs
Do you plan to recruit any new or more CNC operators? *This question is required.
How many are you planning to employ?
11. Workforce Needs
Do you know other businesses that need CNC operator/s? *This question is required.
How many?
12.

Workforce Needs
What is the biggest barrier to hiring CNC operators? (Select all that apply)

*This question is required.
13. Business Context
Does your organisation currently receive, or intend to seek, government funding or support for CNC‑related activities? (Optional)
14. Preferred Job Title
Which title best describes this role in your organisation? *This question is required.
15. Skills and Competencies
Which skills are most important for CNC operator/s in your organisation? (Select all that apply) *This question is required.
16.

Skills and Competencies - Training Pathways
Which training pathways would best support your workforce needs? (Select all that apply)

*This question is required.
17. Training and Development
How do CNC operator/s in your organisation typically gain their skills? (Select all that apply) *This question is required.
Helps us understand responses by industry segment and region
Helps us follow up if clarification is needed.
This question requires a valid email address.
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